Antimalarial potentials, toxicological impacts, and gas chromatography-mass spectrometric analysis of ethanol extract of Spondias mombin Linn

Abstract

Malaria remains a significant global health challenge, necessitating new treatment approaches. This study aimed to investigate the effects of ethanol extract from Spondias mombin leaves on parasitemia, hematological parameters, oxidative stress, liver and kidney function, and serum electrolyte levels in malaria-infected mice. The experimental mice were infected with P. berghei and treated with graded doses of Spondias mombin ethanol extract. Hematological parameters (RBC, WBC, platelet count, Hb, PCV), antioxidant enzyme activities (CAT, SOD, GPx), oxidative stress markers, liver function biomarkers (ALP, AST, ALT, total bilirubin), kidney function biomarkers (urea, creatinine, direct bilirubin), and electrolyte levels (Na⁺, K⁺, Cl⁻, HCO₃⁻) were measured. Different doses of the extract alongside the standard drug significantly inhibited parasite growth. The extract significantly improved hematological parameters and showed no significant effect on SOD activity. CAT activity increased at 100 mg/kg, while GPX activity was highest in controls and lowest at 200 mg/kg. MDA levels decreased significantly at 200 mg/kg. AST and ALP activities varied dose-dependently, reaching a peak at 200 mg/kg. ALT and total bilirubin levels remained stable. Direct bilirubin levels increased at 100 and 200 mg/kg, while urea and creatinine indicated renal stress at higher doses. Sodium and potassium levels decreased dose-dependently, with stable Cl⁻ and HCO₃⁻ levels. A total of 65 bioactive components were found following the results of the GC-MS analysis. Significant antioxidant and antimalarial properties are shown by this extract, and its steady electrolyte levels and low liver stress imply safety. To identify the precise antimalarial bioactive components and their modes of action, more investigation is required. Conclusively, ethanol extract from Spondias mombin shows promise as a malaria adjuvant treatment.