Phytochemical, Nutritional, Metal Composition, Haematological and Antimalarial Evaluation of the Leaf Extract of Morinda Citrifolia L. (Noni)

Abstract

Malaria remains one of the most devastating tropical diseases, responsible for significant morbidity and mortality, particularly in developing countries. This study aimed to evaluate the antimalarial activity, phytochemical composition, metal content, and haematological effects of Morinda citrifolia leaf extracts in order to establish their therapeutic potential and safety profile. Leaf extracts were fractionated using vacuum liquid chromatography, and n-hexane, ethyl acetate, and methanol fractions were assessed for in vivo antiplasmodial activity against Plasmodium berghei in infected mice at doses of 200, 400, and 800 mg/kg. Additionally, metal analysis, haematological studies on red and white blood cells, and total flavonoid content determination were carried out using standard analytical methods The antimalarial evaluation revealed dose-dependent chemosuppression, with values increasing from 13.68–36.19% at 200 mg/kg to 21.06–45.51% at 800 mg/kg across the extracts, indicating significant antiplasmodial activity, although lower than that of the standard drug. Metal analysis showed the presence of essential elements such as iron (2.00 mg/kg), zinc (0.88 mg/kg), manganese (2.25 mg/kg), and chromium (0.195 mg/kg), with lead (0.46 mg/kg) remaining within FAO/WHO permissible limits, suggesting the extract is relatively safe. Haematological studies demonstrated significant increases in red blood cell count, hemoglobin concentration, and hematocrit levels in treated rats, indicating positive effect on erythropoiesis. The methanol leaf extract exhibited high total flavonoid content of 86.12 mg/g quercetin equivalent, confirming the plant’s rich phytochemical profile.