| Summary: | Abstract Background In folk medicine, Acalypha wilkesiana is often used in the treatment of various ailments, although this has not been fully rationalized scientifically. This study was conducted to evaluate the effects of Acalypha wilkesiana leaf extracts on fluid volume and selected tissues in salt loaded rabbits. Methods Thirty rabbits were randomized into five groups consisting of six animals each. Group 1 animals were fed with salt loaded diet continuously. Group 2 animals were fed with salt loaded diet followed by aqueous extract while animals in group 3 were fed with salt loaded diet followed by ethanol extract. Animals in group 4 were fed with salt loaded diet and distilled water while group 5 animals were fed with normal diet only. Results Salt loading resulted in a significantly (P < 0.05) higher ALT, AST and lower bicarbonate. Administration of Acalypha wilkesiana leaf extracts resulted in a significantly (P < 0.05) lower serum sodium, chloride, bicarbonate and AST activities. Histology revealed that salt loading had no effect on the heart, but caused mild vacuolation in the liver, and marked lymphocytosis of the kidney. Administration of the aqueous extract caused blood vessel congestion in the heart, shrinking of portal vein in the liver and congestion of blood vessels in the kidney. Also, administration of the ethanol extract caused distortion in blood vessels in the heart, congestion of the portal vein in the liver and marked lymphocytosis in the kidneys. Conclusion It is advisable to be moderate in the use of Acalypha wilkesiana in folk medicine.
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