Effects of Aqueous Root Extract of Cayratia japonica on Wistar Albino Rats Exposed to Echis ocellatus Venom

Abstract Snakebite is a significant public health issue in many African nations, yet effective treatment is often inaccessible due to the high cost and limited availability of antivenoms. This study evaluates the effects of Cayratia japonica root aqueous extract on toxicity induced by Echis ocellatus venom in male Wistar albino rats. A total of 20 rats (average weight: 225 ± 0.28 g) were divided into five groups: Group 1 (normal control) received distilled water; Group 2 received 0.055 mg/kg E. ocellatus venom without treatment; Groups 3, 4, and 5 received 0.055 mg/kg venom alongside 1000 mg/kg, 2000 mg/kg, and 0.6 mg/ml standard drug, respectively. Blood samples were collected for biochemical analysis, including antioxidant parameters, serum electrolytes (calcium and potassium), and clotting time. Phytochemical analysis of C. japonica root extract revealed alkaloids, saponins, terpenoids, steroids, tannins, carbohydrates, quinones, and glycosides, with GC-MS identifying 48 compounds, five of which have antivenom properties. A significant decrease (p < 0.05) in superoxide dismutase (SOD) and catalase (CAT) levels, along with an increase in malondialdehyde (MDA) in the venom-only group (Group 2), indicating oxidative stress. However, Groups 3 and 4 showed significant increases in SOD levels (p < 0.05) compared to Group 2. These findings suggest that C. japonica root extract has potential as a novel anti-snake venom agent. Keywords: antioxidants, anti-venom, envonomation, medical plants, oxidative stress and phytochemicals