Effect of <i>Polyalthia Longifolia</i> Leaf Extract on Uterine Function Indices of Female Wistar Rats

Abstract

The bark of Polyalthia longifolia plant is commonly used in the treatment of various diseases like diabetes, malaria and many others. In this research, phytochemical screening and effects of the aqueous extract of P. longifolia leaves on the uterine function indices of female Wistar rats were investigated. Phytochemical analysis of the extract was performed using standard methods. The animals were randomized into four groups (Control A, B, C and D) of five rats each. Animals in the control group were given 1ml of distilled water daily, for 30days. While those in groups B, C and D were administered with the same volume of 50, 100 and 200mg/kg body weight of the plant extract, respectively, for 30days as well. At the end of the administration period, the animals were sacrificed 24 hours after the last day of administration. Uterine function indices were evaluated afterwards. Phytochemical screening indicated the presence of saponins, flavonoids, tannins, phenolics, cardiac glycosides, steroids, anthraquinones, phlobatannins and alkaloids while terpenoids were not detected. The extract at a moderate dose of 100mg/kg body weight gave a significant increase and decrease (P<0.05) in uterine glucose and uterine cholesterol respectively; it also revealed a significant increase and decrease(P<0.05) in alkaline phosphatase activity and total protein, when compared with the control. In general, it could be inferred that the aqueous extract of P. longifolia leaves possesses fertility enhancing potentials with regards to the uterus and uterine function indices.