Terminalia catappa Extract Enhances Erythropoiesis in Adult Balb C Mice

Abstract

Anemia and low haemoglobin levels are complications frequently associated with Sickle cell disease and beta-thalasssemia. Chemotherapy of these haemoglobinopathies involves the use of drugs which increase haemoglobin levels. The use of Terminalia catappa traditionally for the treatment of SCD dates back. Herein we evaluated the potential of Terminalia catappa to induce erythropoiesis in adult Balb C mice. The methanolic extract of Terminalia catappa induced production of haemoglobin higher than that of an untreated control after 6 days. The PCV of treated and untreated mice was also assessed and found to be relatively higher in Terminalia catappa treated mice comparable to mice administered with folic acid.