Effects of Aqueous Leaf Extracts of Loranthus micranthus Linn. on Biochemical Profile of Wistar Rats Infected with Trypanosoma brucei brucei

Abstract

Thus, the need for the development of affordable, safe and effective drugs for the treatment of trypanosomiasis has resulted in the study of medicinal plants that have an anti-trypanosomal effect. Several herbal medicines have been discovered as good trypanosides. 10,11 But, this use of L. micranthus is yet to be authenticated. African mistletoe (L. micranthus) is an obligate semi-parasite that depends on its host to obtain water and minerals but can carry out photosynthesis. 12 Trees such as Kola acuminata, Kola nitida, magnifera indica, Azadirachta indica, Jatropha curcas and persia sp are the host on which L. micranthus could grow. 13 It is commonly seen in the tropical rainforest region of Africa, Europe and America. 14 African mistletoes constitute several species with the Loranthus being the most common in Nigeria. This specie has been used traditionally by the people in Nigeria as an anti-cancer, anti-hypertensive, anti-diabetic and indeed as an all-purpose herb. 15 The herb has been analyzed and observed to contain many anti-nutrients. 16 It is used as alternative medicine in the treatment of epilepsy, headache, infertility, menopausal syndrome and rheumatism. 17 It is equally used in many parts of West Africa as an anti-microbial and antiplasmodial agent. 18 In recent times, herbal medicines have become indispensable and are forming an integral part of the primary health care system of many nations. The practices of herbal medicines have produced results of proven efficacies compared to orthodox medicine. 19 However, the quest for better, safe and affordable drugs has triggered more research into herbal drugs, which led to the introduction of herbal preparations for therapeutic uses. In recent times, herbal medicines have become indispensable and are forming an integral part of the primary health care system of many nations. Furthermore, the gains from herbal medicine, especially in developing countries, were inadequate due to lack of scientific basis, warranting that the quality and consistency of the alternative medicines be ascertained and maintained for their maximal