Ulcerogenic Potential of Eucalyptus globulus L. Leaf Extract in Wistar Albino Rats

Abstract

Background and Objective: Eucalyptus globulus (Myrtaceae) is one of the plants widely used by many traditional medicine practitioners (TMP) in Uganda and the rest of the world. Although efficacy data to support the medicinal use of this plant and its oil is widely documented, there was limited knowledge about its safety profile. This study was therefore conducted to evaluate the effect of the methanolic leaf of E. globulus on biochemical, heamatological and histological indices of the rats after 42 days of single daily oral dose. Materials and Methods: A methanolic leaf extract of Eucalyptus globulus was prepared and its sub-acute toxicity evaluated in Wistar albino rats. Healthy animals were administered with determined doses of the extract daily for up to 42 days. At the end of the study period, blood was collected and analyzed for biochemical and heamatological parameters while tissues from selected vital organs were microscopically examined for histopathological lesions. Numerical data was analyzed using ANOVA and mean statistical differences tested using Dunnettʼs test at 95% confidence. Results: The methanolic leaf extract of E. globulus significantly increased the level of neutrophils and lymphocytes but decreased the basophils. It also caused severe sloughing of the intestinal mucosa. Conclusion: It was concluded from current findings that the methanolic leaf extract of E. globulus can cause gastrointestinal ulcers in Wistar rats after subacute administration.