ABSTRACT
Vegetative organs of Khaya senegalensis (Ders.) A. Juss. are widely used in African pharmacopoeia. A review of pharmacological studies, focused on this plant, was carried out, using the available scientific literature. Several studies have revealed its bioactive properties and therefore its medical efficacy. Aqueous and alcoholic extracts of the stem bark and leaves of this plant have shown efficient in the treatment of some bacterial infections. Their widely reported biochemical effects, such as -amylase activity inhibition, decreasing in bowel motility and in some blood and serum enzyme (Aspartate transferase, Alanine transferase and Alkaline phosphatase) justify indications against diabetes, diarrhea and liver disorders. Antiparasitic properties directed against helminths and coccidian are also attributed to these herbal medicines. However, according to some results recorded in various studies, this plant has a high risk of toxicity in chronic treatment (several weeks). Histotoxic effects (in liver and kidney) resulting in increased of plasma total protein, blood urea and creatinine are reported.
ABSTRACT
The effects of the crude aqueous extract of Chenopodium ambrosioides leaves on food intake and digestibility were evaluated with twelve Sahelian goats weighing about 25 kg. Three experimental groups, each consisting of three animals, were treated respectively with the dose of 1ml, 2ml and 4ml/kg of body weight. Treatment was daily and lasted three days. One control group, receiving the same diet as the experimental groups, was involved. The experiment revealed that the herbal extract induced a highly significant variation (p <0.01) in voluntary feed intake expressed in grams of dry matter (DM) from 366.67 g ± 86 (control group) to 631.67 g ± 106.37 (4ml/kg/BW treated group). Concerning digestibility, the results indicated an increase in the absorption of ash and fibre (39.65 % ± 2.65 to 51.38 % ± 4.91). But the digestibility of protein was only slightly influenced by the herbal extract. Animals treated with 4ml/kg/BW dosage had soft and pasty faeces. The aqueous extract of C. ambrosioides leaves would own interesting digestive effects in small ruminants in the fattening stage or those suffering from indigestion due to rumen stuffing. Further specialized studies may clarify those effects.