THE EFFECTS OF ETHANOL EXTRACT OF BITTER KOLA STEM BARK ON HAEMATOLOGICAL INDICES (HEMOGLOBLIN, PACKED CELL VOLUME AND PLATELETS) USING ALBINO WISTER RATS.

ABSTRACT Plants have been used as sources of remedies for the treatment of many diseases by peoples from all continents, particularly in Africa, with its diverse culture and rich source of traditional medicines, since ancient times. Garcinia kola, commonly known as bitter kola, has been recognized for its potential therapeutic properties. Garcinia kola, traditionally used in African medicine, has prompter investigations into its haematological effects. This study examined the impact of Garcinia kola stem bark extract on Wister Albino rats. Four groups (n=5) received varying doses 100, 500, and 1000 mg/kg) of the extract. Haematological analysis revealed dose- dependent alterations in hemoglobin (Hb), packed cell volume (PCV), and platelets. Results showed significant declines in Hb (10.98±0.88 /dl), PCV (54.2±1.8%), and platelets (152.40±30.09×10^9/L) at the medium dose (500 mg/kg), and further reductions at the high dose (1000 mg/kg). These findings suggest potential toxicity and bone marrow suppression. The study's outcomes indicate that Garcinia kola stem bark extract's traditional medicinal uses may require careful monitoring of dosage to prevent adverse haematological effects. Further research is necessary to elucidate the mechanisms of toxicity and investigate potential reversibility of haematological changes. This study contributes to the understanding of Garcinia kola's haematological effects and informs the development of safe therapeutic applications. The findings have implications for traditional medicine practitioners, researchers, and healthcare professionals.