Antiplasmodial Properties of Ethanol Stem-Bark Extract of Newbouldia Laevis (P. Beauv) Seem in P. Berghei Infected Mice

Background: Despite substantial improvement in the management of malaria infection over the last centuries, it remains a significant public threat especially to those in the tropical and subtropical African regions due to the emergence of drug-resistant P. falciparum strains, delayed diagnosis, high cost as well as contraindications of some available antimalarial medications. Hence, the need for necessary measures in terms of alternative therapeutic approaches to counter this threat is of utmost importance. The present study was aimed at determining the antimalarial potential of ethanol stem-bark extract of Newbouldia laevis in P. berghei (NK65) infected mice. Methodology: The antimalarial activity of Newbouldia laevis stem-bark at 250, 500 and 1,000 mg/kg was investigated in mice infected with 1 x 107 parasitized erythrocytes using three experimental animal models: Peter's 4-day suppressive, curative and prophylactic models. Phytochemical screening of the stem bark was also conducted. Results: The extract at all tested doses of 250, 500 and 1000 mg/ kg showed significant (p