ACTIVITIES OF Solanum nigrum ON THE RATIO OF LYMPHOCYTES TO WHITE BLOOD CELLS IN OVALBUMIN

ABSTRACT

Despite the ongoing intensive crises associated with asthma, several research has spring up since the incidence of asthma is increasing worldwide. The aim of this study was to evaluate the activities of Solanum nigrum on the ratio of lymphocytes to white blood cells in ovalbumin induced asthma in guinea pigs. Standard methodology was inculcated in the evaluation of graded doses (100 and 200 mg/kg) of S. nigrum in ovalbumin-induced guinea pig, in six (6) groups (n=5) for a period of six weeks. The results showed that the treatment markedly increased the number of white blood cells and lymphocytes there by decreasing hypersecretion of mucus leading to inflamed tissues when compared with ovalbumin control alone and positive control. The S. nigrum treated groups response is in dose-dependent manner, decreased the levels of reactive oxygen species (ROS) and T helper (Th) 2 cytokines, included in interleukin (IL)-4 and IL-5, and at higher dose of S. nigrum an effective reduction in the level of total immunoglobulin (Ig)E in the serum. In conclusion, a clearer indication in the administration of S. nigrum may elicit the therapeutic potential when used as an adjuvant immunomodulatory treatment in allergic asthma.