In vivo evaluation of antiplasmodial activity of hydroethanolic stem extract of Baphia pubescens in Plasmodium berghei infected albino mice

Introduction: Malaria is a global concern especially with the emergence of multidrug resistant strains of Plasmodium falciparum. The need exist for newer and effective antimalarial agents. Hydroethanolic stem extract of Baphia pubescens has been used for the treatment of malaria in traditional medical settings. This study explores the antimalarial potential of this extract. Methods: The lethal dose of hydroethanolic stem extracts of B. pubescens was determined. Phytochemical screening of the extract was done using standard methods. Experimental animals received graded doses of the extract once daily for 3 days. In vivo antiplasmodial activity was assessed by the Rane’s curative test, using P. berghei infected mice. Results: The extract demonstrated a dose-dependent curative activity at the tested doses (100, 200 and 400 mg/kg). Complete (100%) parasite clearance was achieved (on day 4 post-treatment) at 400 mg/kg dose, which is greater than the standard drug used (artemether-lumefantrine). The extract is considered safe since the lethal dose was higher than 5000 mg/kg. Conclusion: This study demonstrated that hydroethanolic extracts of B. pubescens has promising antimalarial activity. This supports the local use of B. pubescens as an anti-malarial agent. Further studies need to be done to identify and characterize the active principles/substances in the extract.