Impact of Justicia carnea on haemostatic parameters of albino rats

This study evaluates the impact of ethanolic leaf extract of Justicia carnea on hemostatic parameters in albino Wistar rats, focusing on platelet count, prothrombin time (PT), and activated partial thromboplastin time (APTT). Justicia carnea, a medicinal plant widely used in West Africa for blood-related disorders, was investigated for its coagulation-modulating effects. Thirty rats were divided into four groups: a control group receiving distilled water and three treatment groups receiving low (0.3 ml), medium (1.75 ml), and high (3.5 ml) doses of the extract daily for 14 days. Blood samples were analyzed for PT, APTT, and platelet count, with comparisons made across doses and genders. Results showed a dose-dependent increase in platelet count, with the high-dose group reaching 742.75 ± 12.23 ×10⁹/L compared to the control’s 582.43 ± 7.93 ×10⁹/L (p = 0.000, Table 3). PT was significantly prolonged, increasing from 15.14 ± 0.90 seconds (control) to 24.13 ± 1.13 seconds (high-dose, p = 0.000). APTT also extended from 33.71 ± 1.89 seconds (control) to 47.50 ± 1.20 seconds (high-dose, p = 0.000). Female rats exhibited more pronounced effects, with platelet counts up to 750.60 ± 6.58 ×10⁹/L and PT at 24.40 ± 1.14 seconds (p =00.000, Table 8), suggesting sex-specific responses possibly due to hormonal influences. These findings, consistent with prior studies, indicate thrombopoietic and anticoagulant properties, likely driven by flavonoids and phenolics. The dual action of Justicia carnea suggests therapeutic potential for conditions like thrombocytopenia or hypercoagulability, but its anticoagulant effects warrant caution to avoid bleeding risks. Further studies are needed to identify active compounds, assess long-term safety, and validate clinical applications.