The effect of ethanolic extract of Annona muricata leaf on the basal ganglia

Annona muricata (Linn.) is an evergreen tropical tree of the Annonaceae family that possesses phytotherapeutic bioactive compounds known as annonaceous acetogenins effective for the treatment of cancers and several diseases. This study investigated the effect of ethanolic extract of Annona muricata leaf on the basal ganglia. Twenty four (24) adult wistar rats were randomly divided into four groups (A, B, C & D) of six animals each. Group A served as the control and received 2 ml/kg of distilled water; the experimental groups B, C & D were orally administered 100 mg/kg, 200 mg/kg and 300 mg/kg body weight of ethanolic extract of Annona muricata leaf respectively for thirty days. At the end of administration, the animals were anaesthetized under the influence of chloroform vapour, dissected and their brain harvested for histological examination. The histological result revealed mild increase in the number of basal ganglia nuclei cell body (BGNCB) and fibres (F) with mild necrosis of neurons when compared to their control group. In conclusion, high consumption of ethanolic extract of Annona muricata could result in extrapyramidal side effects. Thus, it should be taken at lower doses.