Effects of Aqueous Extract of <I>Triplochiton scleroxylon</I> on White Blood Cell Differentials in Alloxan-Induced Diabetic Rabbits

Studies were conducted on the effects of aqueous extract of Triplochiton scleroxylon on white blood cell differentials in alloxan-induced diabetic rabbits. At least 100 mL of the aqueous extract was administered orally to test rabbits of New Zealand strain weighing between 1200 to 1680g for a period of 28 days. Clean drinking troughs were used in the administration of water and aqueous extract to the control and test rabbits respectively. Blood was collected for analyses intravenously through the larger vein at the back of the ear of rabbits. Hematological Swelab autocounter 920E+ (UK) was used in the determination of white blood cell differentials; neutrophils, lymphocytes, basophils and eosinophils. Analyses of results showed that the aqueous extract of the bark of Triplochiton scleroxylon did not have significant effects (p>0.05) on white blood cell differentials in alloxan-induced diabetic rabbits studied. Plasma glucose concentration decreased significantly (p<0.05) on the 18th, 24th and 28th days of administration of aqueous bark extract of this plant. Triplochiton scleroxylon has hypoglycemic and anti-diabetic properties and the aqueous bark extract may not predispose to white blood cell dysfunctions.