Antiplasmodial and in vitro antioxidant potentials of crude aqueous and methanol extracts of Chasmanthera dependens (Hochst)

Abstract

Abstract Background Malaria is a major cause of death in tropical countries such as Nigeria. Chasmanthera dependens (Hochst) is a wild plant used by traditional healers for the treatment of malaria and other health challenges. This study evaluated the 'Antiplasmodial and in vitro antioxidant potentials of crude aqueous and methanol extracts of leaves, root and stem of Chasmanthera dependens (Hochst)’. Results Methanol extracts of leaves and roots of this plant exhibited higher antimalarial activities than other extracts. The level of parasitemia was significantly ( p < 0.05) reduced in the treated animals when compared to untreated ones. Antiplasmodial activities of methanol extracts of roots and stem did not differ significantly ( p < 0.05) from their aqueous extracts. An increase in body weight and higher survival rates were recorded in all the treated groups. Scavenging of DPPH, NO, H 2 O 2 radicals and reducing power ability were concentration-dependent. Methanolic extracts of C. dependens root showed the best reducing activity. Phytochemical analyses revealed the presence of tannins, saponins, alkaloids, terpenoids, cardiac glycosides, flavonoids, phenols, phytate and oxalate. Conclusion Antimalarial and antioxidant properties of these extracts could be credited to the synergy between the phytoconstituents in this plant. Findings from this study justified the use of this plant in the treatment of malaria and other ailments.