Saudi Journal of Pathology and Microbiology (SJPM)
Volume-3 | Issue-09 | 260-268
Original Research Article
Acute Toxicity and Aphrodisiac Effect of the Aqueous Extract of the Trunk Bark of Prunusafricana (Hook F) Kalkman (Rosaceae) in Male Albino and Normal Rats of the Wistar Strain
EtameLoe Gisèle, Dibong Siegfried Didier, Sikadeu Sandrine, Amougou Mackenzie Bénédicte Aimée, Talla Clovis,Tankeu Séverin Elisée, Yinyang Jacques, Ngene Jean Pierre, Ngoule Charles Christian, OkallaEbongue Cécile, KidikPouka Cathérine, NnangaNga Emmanuel
Published : Sept. 30, 2018
Abstract
The objective of the study was to evaluate the aphrodisiac property of the
aqueous extract of Prunusafricana trunk bark in albino and normal male rats of the
Wistar strain. Colorimetric and precipitation methods were used to highlight secondary
metabolites of the plant. The acute toxicity test was conducted according to OCDE
guideline 423. Four lots of 6 animals were used to evaluate the aphrodisiac property of
P. africana. The positive control received sildenafil citrate (5 mg/Kg) and the negative
control, distilled water. The test lots received the extract at 100 and 200 mg/Kg for 8
days. The copulatory parameters were observed on days 1, 4 and 8. The phytochemical
screening revealed the presence of flavonoids, alkaloids, tannins, saponosides and tri
terpenes in the extract. No changes in the general appearance of the rats and no
mortality were recorded during the toxicity test, highlighting that P. africana is nontoxic. The extract significantly increased the sex parameters of the tested rats. This
aphrodisiac effect of P. africana attributed to identify secondary metabolites justifies its
use in traditional medicine as a sexual stimulant.