In Vitro Anti Trypanosomal Activity of Crude and Fractionated Ethanolic Extracts of Chrysophyllum albidum (African Star Apple) Leaves

This research work is aimed at evaluating the crude and fractionated ethanolic extracts of Chrysophyllum albidum (African Star Apple) leaves for its anti-trypanosomal potentials. This was done by crude ethanolic extraction and fractionation of the extract using column chromatography where four fractions were obtained. Antitrypanosomal potential was assessed by monitoring the effect on Trypanosoma brucei brucei parasite motility of the infected blood with an electron microscope for one hour with fraction four showing the highest antitrypanosomal activity. The crude extract of C. albidum and the fractions showed varying degrees of antitrypanosomal activity. The 4th fraction showed the highest antitrypanosomal activity as parasites were found dead within 20mins post-incubation. The crude extract, 1st, 2nd and 3rd fractions also showed varying degrees of antitrypanosomal activity. Hence, Chrysophyllum albidum (African Star Apple) leaves has the potential of leading to the development of cheap, safe and effective drug for the treatment or management of African trypanosomiasis.