Evaluation of in vivo antiplasmodial activity of Aspilia africana

Abstract

The antiplasmodial activity of ethanol leaf extract of Aspilia africana was evaluated in mice infected with Plasmodium berghei berghei during early and established infections. Aspilia africana extract (100-300 mg kg-1 day-1) exhibited a significant (p<0.05) blood schizonticidal activity both in 4 day early infection and in established infection. The extract produced a significant (p<0.05) chemosuppression in both early and established infections tests though lower than that produced by chloroquine, 5 mg kg-1 day-1. Also, significant mean survival time was recorded in extract treated groups compared to the control group during established infection. The leaf extract posseses a promising antiplasmodial activity which can be exploited in malaria therapy. © 2006 Asian Network for Scientific Information.