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ABSTRACT
Medicinal plants have the potentials to prevent, treat and manage acute and chronic diseases due to the high presence of phytochemicals. Acalypha wilkesiana has a long history dating back to the early years of use in herbal medications and various pharmacological characteristics. This current study was aimed at evaluating the sub-toxic effect of Acalypha wilkesiana suggesting it may have a toxic or side effect on the lipid profile of the male wistar rats after a period of time since studies suggests that this plant could be used as a supplement. A total of 21 healthy rats were grouped into four groups of four rats each and were fed and given water daily. Group 1 was the control and exposed to standard feeding and water only while Groups 2,3 and 4 were treated with extracts of 1000 mg, 1500 mg and 2000 mg respectively. At the end of this study, animals were fasted overnight and sacrificed. Sample of blood was collected and centrifuged to obtain the serum and both were subjected to biochemical assays. Results from this assay showed slight significant impact in the levels of Total Cholesterol, and Triglycerides. This study suggests that Acalypha wilkesiana has a toxic effect on the lipid profile at high doses and longer duration of administration, so extract should be administered in smaller doses and taken with caution.
