Haematologial & Histopathological Effect Of Cocoyam (Colocasia Esculenta) On Albino Rats

ABSTRACT

The haematological and histopathological effect on rats treated with cocoyam (Colocasia esculenta), was studied. Result obtained, revealed the presence of anti-nutritional factors such as saponins, tannin, hydrocyanide and phenol in Colocasia esculenta, but in quantities not sufficient enough to induce toxicity when moderately consumed. All rats treated with 100mg/kg Colocasia esculenta extract stood at 6.43±0.57 (RBC x 10'), 35.40+ 2.15(PCV%) and 12.76 ±1.54 (HB gmldl) and compared thvourably with that of the control group 5.96 ± 0.62 (RBC x 10'). 33.40 ± l.85(PCV%), 11.08 ±0.55(HB gm/dl), although elevated White Blood Cell (WBC) values were observed. The histopathological studies were observed in all treated groups when compared to the control groups (fig. 1, 2 and 3). The lungs showed no evidence of interstitial and interlobular Oedema. Colocasia esculenta at high doses or quantities may present signs of toxicity due to the presence of anti-nutritional factors, including tannins. phenols. saponins, hydrocyanide, but at moderate or with moderate consumption. no toxicity will be observed as evidence by hematologica1 and histopathological results of this work.