Anti-malarial, anti-inflammatory and antioxidative activities of the aqueous extract of <em>Picralima nitida</em> (STAPF) TH. &H. Durand fruits (Apocynaceae) in rats

Abstract

Malaria is a life-threatening disease generating secretion of cytokines and inflammatory mediators that trigger inflammatory reactions and oxidative stress often leading to severe forms of the disease. The study investigates the anti-malarial, anti-inflammatory and antioxidative effects of the aqueous extract of Picralima nitida fresh fruits in Plasmodium berghei-induced malaria in rat. Malaria was induced by intraperitoneal inoculation of 500 μl of 1x106 Plasmodium berghei-parasitized erythrocytes. Parasitaemia was assessed using microscopic examination of blood smear Giemsa stained. Infected animals were treated with gradual dose of the extract of Picralima nitida fruits, distilled water (10 ml/kg) and chloroquine (10 mg/kg) by single daily administration for 5 days. Haematological, immunological and tissue biochemical and analyses were performed. The treatment with the extract significantly inhibited parasite development, regulated the pro-inflammatory cytokines and improved anti-oxidant status. It also alleviates fever, anaemia, liver and kidney function failure in treated rats. These results express the anti-malarial, anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties of Picralima nitida and justify its traditional used for health care.