Effect of aqueous extract of Andrographis paniculata on leukocyte count in different wound models of Wistar rats

Abstract

Introduction and Aim: Andrographis paniculata Nees (Ap), well-known medicinal plant in India, has anti- inflammatory, antioxidant properties. In wound healing process, WBCs plays very important role in the inflammatory phase. As Ap has anti-inflammatory effect, the present study was designed to evaluate the effects of aqueous extract of Ap on WBCs in different wound models in Wistar albino rats.

Methodology: Total leucocyte count and differential leucocyte count (DLC) were done in different wound models in Wistar rats treated with aqueous extract of leaves of Ap (400mg/kg body weight).

Results: There was an increase in the total leucocyte count and lymphocyte count in rats treated with aqueous extract of Ap in all three models of wound, but it was not very significant compared to wounded rats.

Conclusion: A. paniculata Nees is one of the most widely used herb in Ayurvedic formulations as it has anti- inflammatory, antioxidant properties in vitro as well as in vivo systems. This could be the reason for the insignificant increase in the total leucocyte count and lymphocyte count in Ap treated rats compared to wounded rats.

Keywords: Andrographis paniculata Nees; excision wound; incision wound; total leucocyte count; differential leucocyte count.