Effects of aqueous extract of Ocimum gratissimum on haematological parameters of Wistar rats

The effect of aqueous extract of Ocimum gratissimum on hematological parameters of Wister rats was studied. Twenty five rats with weight ranging between 100-160g were used. The rats were divided into five groups; with group one as the control group. Increasing doses (0.2, 0.4,0.8, 1.6g kg-1 body weight) of the extract were administered orally to the other four groups for a period of four weeks. Significant (P< 0.05) decreases in the level of hemoglobin (Hb), packed cell volume (PCV), red blood cells (RBC), white blood cells (WBC) and other hematological parameters were observed.