Hematological Effects of Aqueous Extract of Chromolaena odorata on Acetaminophen Induced Toxicity in Wistar Rats

This study was designed to investigate the effect of aqueous extracts of Chromolaena odorata leaves on the hematological indices of acetaminophen-induced toxicity in Wistar rats. Maceration extraction method was used for aqueous extractions. Twenty-five (25) adult male Wistar rats weighing between 120 g and 150 g were randomized into five groups of five rats each and used for the study. Acetaminophen toxicity was induced daily in groups B to E. Group A served as the normal control, Group B was given 42.9 mg/kg Acetaminophen (Negative Control) only, Group C was given Standard drug -100 mg/kg Silymarin (Positive Control), Group D and Group E were given 100 mg/kg and 300 mg/kg aqueous extract of C. odorata respectively. The animals were administered the extract orally once a day for 28 days. Bodyweight was determined using an electronic weighing scale. Hematological parameters were analyzed using an automated method. Treatment with the aqueous extract of C. odorata for four weeks after the induction of toxicity using acetaminophen did not cause any significant difference (p<0.05) in the bodyweight of the rats. There was an increase in the hemoglobin, packed cell volume and platelet count of the group of rats treated with 100 mg/kg aqueous extract of C. odorata compared to the untreated group while a decrease in the hemoglobin concentration and packed cell volume was observed in the group treated with 300 mg/kg bodyweight of the extract compared to the untreated and normal control group. This revealed that at higher doses, continuous administration of aqueous extract of C. odorata can lead to toxicity. Caution should be taken whenever treatment with the aqueous extract of C. odorata is to be made for therapeutic purposes, as it can alter haematological indices and disrupt the normal functioning of the hematopoietic system.