Abstract:
Background: Polyscias fruticosa is a plant used in the traditional management of asthma in Ghana.
Aim: This study evaluated the anti-inflammatory property of an ethanolic leaf extract of Polyscias
fruticosa and safety for use in ovalbumin-induced asthma. Methodology: The total and differential
white blood cell counts, C-reactive protein level, and erythrocyte sedimentation rate were determined for
blood samples obtained from Duncan Hartley guinea-pigs following sensitization (150 µg OVA + 100
mg aluminium hydroxide, I.P), OVA aerosol challenge, and treatment with 2 ml/kg normal saline,
10mg/kg prednisolone and 100, 250 or 500 mg/kg of the extract. An acute and delayed toxicity study
was also conducted. Results: White blood cells and its differentials were significantly elevated (P ≤
0.05) after OVA-induced asthma. Treatments with the extracts and prednisolone significantly reduced
(P≤0.05) elevated white blood cells and its differentials. Elevated serum C-reactive protein (≥ 6.0 ± 0.00
mg/l) was reduced to within normal levels, and there was a significant decrease (P ≤ 0.01) in erythrocyte
sedimentation rates in PFE and prednisolone-treated animals following OVA-induced asthma. PFE
showed no significant toxic effect at lower doses (NOAEL: < 1000 mg/kg) Conclusion: The ethanolic
leaf extract of Polyscias fruticosa reduces white blood cell count and i
