ABSTRACT

The aqueous and ethanolic extracts of leaves of Sansevieria liberica were investigated for acute and sub acute toxicological patterns in Wistar rats. Subacute (28 days) studies were conducted in rats with one daily dose of 100, 200, 600 and 1000mg/kg. Biochemical indices observed for at the end of chronic tests included changes in body and vital organ weights, mortality, biochemical and hepatic effects. Sansevieria liberica did not produce any visible toxicological effects or mortality with oral doses up to 1000mg/kg within 28 days of single treatment. Acute toxicity test of the extracts gave an LD50of 1,200mg/kg body weight. In the chronic tests no mortality or visible signs of lethality was observed in rats. No significant change in the weights of the kidney, liver, heart or lungs was recorded. Biochemical parameters of liver function showed that the extract produced a dose dependent increase in the level of serum alanine aminotransferase, total and conjugated bilirubin. There was no significant increase in the level of serum aspartate aminotransferase (AST) alkaline phosphatase (ALP), creatinine, protein and blood urea levels. The dose dependent increase in the mean value of serum alanine amino transferees and bilirubin for all extracts administered were not statistically significant (P> 0.05). Phytochemical analysis of the plant materials showed that saponin, tannin, flavonoids, sterenoid and phenolic compounds were present, which may be responsible for its use in ethnomedical practices. In conclusion, Sansevieria liberica is relatively safe in rat at the concentrations used for this experiment .However the extract should be taken with caution bearing in mind that higher doses could affect the liver.