[Study of the abortifacient effects of Leptadenia hastata Pers. (Decne)]

Some abortions on horses and dromedaries are chargeable to Leptadenia hastata (Asclepiadacea) by breeders from Linguere (Senegal). The aim of the study is to explore the abortifacient properties of Leptadenia hastata on mice. For thus, 25 p. 100 and 50 p. 100 of Leptadenia hastata powder have been incorporated to the ration of pregnant mices. The results obtained showed that reproduction rates are significantly (p < 0.05) reduced in groups fed with 25 p. 100 and 50 p. 100 of Leptadenia hastata than in control group. It has been concluded that Leptadenia hastata causes partial abortion in mice, probably by a toxic effect leading to the death and the resorption of the embryo.