Antianemic Activity of Anamirta cocculus Hydro-Ethanol Extract against Sodium Nitrite-Induced Anemia in Rats

Abstract

Anamirta cocculus is a plant endemic to Papua, Indonesia, which is used empirically by indigenous Papuans to treat various health problems, including anemia. This investigation aims to ascertain whether the hydro-ethanol extract from Anamirta cocculus stems can prevent anemia in rats induced by sodium nitrite (NaNO2). Five groups of five rats each were designed from 25 rats. Aquadestillata 5 mg/kg was given to the control group in Group I. Sangobion 1.465 mg/kg, po was given to the control positive group II. Anamirta cocculus (400, 550, and 700 mg/kg, po) was given to groups III, IV, and V, respectively.  All rats were first orally administered NaNO2 at a dose of 187.5 mg/kg once daily for 1 week to obtain anemic rats. Thereafter, the various treatments (groups I to V) were done once daily for 15 days. All animals were given as food standard rodent pellets and water during treatment. Blood specimens were collected before and during treatment on days 0, 3, 9, and 15 via venipuncture to assess blood hemoglobin (Hb) levels using a UV-visible spectrophotometer. Data analysis using SPSS paired-sample and independent-sample t-test. The findings showed that NaNO2 caused a statistically significant (p<0.05) decrease in Hb level as seen in the control group, which indicated anemia. According to the findings, oral administration of 550 and 700 mg/kg of Anamirta cocculus extract significantly reduced anemia in rats that had been induced by NaNO2 (p <0.05). Indeed, these observations may be useful for managing anemia.