Effect of Leptadenia Hastata Leaf Extract on Embyo- Foetal Development in White Albino Rats

Effect of Leptadenia hastata leaf extract on embryo-foetal development in white albino rats was investigated. A total of 25 nulliparous female and 5 male rats of approximate age of 57-60 days old were used and grouped into A-E in this study. Female rats were cohabited in a ratio of 5:1 male and allowed to acclimatize for one week. Pregnancy was determined by seeing virginal plug each morning. Pregnant females in each group A, B, C, and D where administered orally with 200mg, 300mg, 400mg and 500mg/ kg b.wt of the leaf extract of Leptadenia hastata on days 1-20 of the pregnancy. Group E served as the control and were given only normal saline per os. All the groups were sacrificed on day 20 of pregnancy and observed for changes. The results revealed that there were sites of implantation which degenerated and some foetal resorbtions seen with treated groups as compared with the control which showed normal litter. The outcome suggests abortifacient effect of the plant.