Abstract

Oze Gabriel, Dr. Ekweogu Celestine Nwabu, Uche Mercylyn Ezinne*

ABSTRACT

Musa paradisiaca is used in folklore medicine as antiulcer, antidiabetic, antimicrobial, anti-helminthic, anti-dysentery, antimalaria and anti-snake venom. The index study evaluated the antidiabetic, haemostatic properties and subacute toxicity profile, of aqueous stem extract of Musa paradisiaca (ASEMP) in rats. In acute toxicity test, animals were grouped (n=5/group) and were treated with varying doses of the stem extract: 500mg/kg, 1000mg/kg and 2000mg/kg, 3000mg/kg, 4000mg/kg and 5000mg/kg using the method described by OECD. Following induction of diabetes with intraperitoneal alloxan injection, rats were grouped (n=6/group) for subacute toxicity and haemostatic studies. Group 1 served as the normal control while groups 2, 3 were negative and positive controls respectively while groups 4, 5 and 6 received 150mg/kg, 300mg/kg and 600mg/kg of ASEMP via daily gavage for 14 days respectively. All analysis were done using standard laboratory methods. In acute toxicity test, no signs of toxicity and no death was recorded. Animals evaluated for biomarkers: liver, kidney, lipid profile, haematological and antioxidant parameters did not show any sign of toxicity. Animals treated with ASEMP showed lesser clotting and bleeding time when compared to the normal control group. This study shows that ASEMP is safe with potent antibleeding properties.