Neutralization potential of Viper russelli russelli (Russell's viper) venom by ethanol leaf extract of Acalypha indica.

The study aims to examine the Viper russelli russelli venom neutralization potential of the ethanol leaf extract (250, 500 and 750 mg/kg) of Acalypha indica (Euphorbiaceae). Administration of the ethanol leaf extract at i.p. dose levels of 500 and 750 mg/kg significantly inhibited, in a dose dependent manner, the Viper russelli venom-induced lethality, haemorrhage, necrotizing and mast cell degranulation in rats and the cardiotoxic and neurotoxic effects in isolated frog tissue. Administration of the extract also significantly inhibited venom-induced lipid peroxidation in RBC, decreased GSH and catalase levels of rat kidney tissue. The observations confirmed that the ethanol leaf extract of Acalypha indica possesses potent snake venom neutralizing properties.