Therapeutic and toxicological assessment of hydroethanolic leaf extracts of Jatropha carcus and Justicia carnea in apparently healthy Sprague Dawley rats.

Abstract

The use of medicinal plants in the management or prevention of diseases is one of the oldest human medicinal practices worldwide. Justicia carnea and Jatropha carcus are widely reported for their use in the management of blood disorders, hypertension, and diabetes.

Objective: The study aimed at evaluating the effects of hydroethanolic leaf extracts of Justicia carnea and Jatropha carcus on the biochemical, hematological, and histological parameters of apparently healthy rats.

Methodology: Thirty adult rats (n = 30) with an average weight of 153 g were randomly divided into six groups (A-F). Group A: negative control; Group B: positive control; Group C: Jatropha curcas (low dose); Group D: Jatropha curcas (high dose); Group E: Justicia carnea (low dose); and Group F: Justicia carnea (high dose). Standard and scientifically approved methods were used for sacrifice and laboratory diagnosis.

Results: The study shows a significant increase in body weight across groups administered with the leaf extracts. Elevated levels of serum creatinine were recorded in rats administered with both extracts, indicating nephrotoxicity. The study also observed an increase in alanine aminotransferase, aspartate aminotransferase, and alkaline phosphatase across groups, indicating hepatotoxicity. Both extracts caused an increase in white blood cell count and hemoglobin concentration, a significant reduction in bleeding time, increased prothrombin time, and partial thromboplastin time at high dosages. Total iron binding capacity and serum ferritin values were increased in high doses and were statistically significant at P<0.05. Histomorphology of both extracts shows hepatorenal toxicity at high concentrations and none in the lungs or heart. Oral administration of Justicia carnea and Jatropha carcus extracts at high concentrations is not safe for the liver and kidneys.

Conclusion: Biochemical parameters should be monitored regularly in humans exposed to both plants. Therefore, this study scientifically confirms and supports the traditional use of the leaves of Jatropha carcus and Justicia carnea to enhance hematological parameters.