Abstract

The study evaluates Markhamia zanzibarica root extract phytochemicals, toxicological profile and fertility enhancing potential using female rat model. The plant was harvested, chopped, dried, ground into powder. Organic extracts were prepared by sequential extraction (petroleum ether, dichloromethane (DCM), ethyl acetate and methanol), by use of cold maceration. Aqueous extract was obtained by hot maceration. Phytochemical screening of extracts was done by standard phytochemical procedures. Twelve female rats were used for the acute oral toxicity study as per OECD guideline 423. Methanol extract had the highest composition of phytochemicals such as alkaloids, flavonoids, saponins, sterols, terpenes and cardiac glycosides. Aqueous and DCM extracts showed presence of alkaloids, saponins and cardiac glycosides while petroleum ether and ethyl acetate extracts showed presence of alkaloids and cardiac glycosides. Steroids and tannins were absent in all extracts. Flavonoids, alkaloids and terpenes enhanced fertility probably due to their antioxidant and radical scavenging abilities. Flavonoids, alkaloids and glycosides probably improves fertility by inducing ovarian steroidogenesis and folliculogenesis. The plant extract had no adverse effects at over 2000 mg/kg through intra-abdominal gavage. Markhamia zanzibarica root extract has phytochemicals that enhance fertility and potentially safe when given orally. These findings however require further verification using in vivo studies.

Key words: Markhamia zanzibarica, Toxicology profile, Phytochemicals, Pro-fertility