Evaluation of antiplasmodial activity of Berlina grandiflora leaf extract against Plasmodium berghei in mice

Abstract

The in vivo antiplasmodial activity of methanol leaf extract of Berlina grandiflora was investigated in Plasmodium berghei infected mice. Four day suppressive and curative effect against established infection models of antiplasmodial studies was used. The extract (100 to 400 mg/kg, p.o.) exhibited significant (p < 0.05) antiplasmodial activity in early and established infection tests with a considerable mean survival time comparable to that of chloroquine, 10 mg/kg. The leaf extract showed a significant (p < 0.05) activity against the parasite in the suppressive and curative tests. The finding supports the traditional use of the plant for the treatment of malaria.