Assessment of Liver Enzyme Activity and Hematological Parameters Following Administration of Anacardium occidentale Ethanolic Leaf Extract

Abstract

Background: Plants have been one the major source of treatment and the use of indigenous plant is also actively in use. The use of complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) by individuals in the developing nation often include herbal remedies. Aim: The present study investigated the potential risks and benefits of ethanolic leaf extract of Anacardium occidentale on liver and haematological biomarkers of male Albino rats. Methods: Anacardium occidentale (cashew) leaves were harvested from the trees within Clifford university compound Ihie campus, Isialangwa North Local Government Area of Abia State, Nigeria and transported to Biochemistry Laboratory, Clifford University, Owerinta, Ihie Campus, Abia State, Nigeria. The plant was then sent for authentication at the department of Plant Science and Biotechnology, Abia State University Uturu by a taxonomist and voucher samples deposited in the Departmental herbarium. The experimental animals were orally administered the leaf extracts for 14 days. The phytochemical screening was done according to the standard method. Results: The phytochemical analysis revealed the presence of flavonoids, saponins, phenolic compounds, phytosterols, terpenoids, and triterpenoids, with alkaloids and cardiac glycosides absent. While Macro-nutritional analysis revealed moderate levels of proteins and amino acids, and low levels of carbohydrates and reducing sugars. Acute toxicity tests indicated that the extract is safe at 5000 mg/kg body weight. Liver function tests showed no significant changes in aspartate transaminase, alanine aminotransferase, and alkaline phosphatase concentrations across the groups, while the result of the hematology showed a significant increase for the group that received the highest dose of the extract at 800mg/kg body weight when compared to the control group. Conclusion: The study showed no critical toxicological effect on the hepatocytes and hematocytes at the tested doses. There should be more extensive studies to confirm the long term safety and efficacy of the ethanolic leaf extract of Anacardium occidentale in different animal models and potentially in human trials to fully understand its therapeutic potential and safety profile.