Antiplasmodial Potentials, Phytocompounds, and the Possible Toxic Effects of Administration of Ethylacetate Extract of <i>Spondias mombin</i> Linn.

Abstract

Malaria, caused by Plasmodium parasites, is a global health concern. Natural products, such as plant extracts, are investigated for new antimalarial agents. Spondias mombin, traditionally used for medicinal purposes, was examined for its effects on parasitemia, hematological parameters, antioxidant activities, liver function biomarkers, and serum electrolytes in Plasmodium berghei-infected mice. Mice received varying doses of the ethylacetate extract. Various dosages of the extract and the prescribed medication dramatically slowed the parasite's growth. The extract significantly improved red blood cell (RBC) and platelet counts, particularly at higher doses. Hemoglobin levels were decreased dose-dependently. Antioxidant analysis showed increased superoxide dismutase (SOD), glutathione peroxidase (GPx), and reduced catalase (CAT) activities and malondialdehyde (MDA) levels, indicating robust antioxidant properties. Liver function tests showed mixed effects, with elevated aspartate aminotransferase (AST), alkaline phosphatase (ALP), and total bilirubin (TB) levels at some doses, yet decreased alanine aminotransferase (ALT) at the highest dose, suggesting possible hepatoprotective effects. Serum electrolyte levels remained stable. Seventy-eight (78) bioactive components were identified in the extract by gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS) analysis. The extract demonstrated substantial antimalarial and antioxidant capacities, with minimal liver stress and stable electrolyte levels, suggesting safety as an adjunct therapy for malaria. Further research is needed to ascertain the specific antimalarial bioactive constituents and their mechanisms of action.