Hematopoietic Effect of Amaranthus cruentus Extract on Phenylhydrazine-Induced Toxicity in Rats

Amaranthus cruentus (Amaranthaceae) is one of the popularly grown leafy vegetables in the Indian subcontinent. Leaves of the plant are rich in polyphenols, tannins, flavonoids, steroids, terpenoids, saponins, and betalains. The plant also contains rich amounts of protein, calcium, iron, vitamins A, E, and C, and folic acid. The present work was undertaken to evaluate the antianemic effect of Amaranthus cruentus. Ethanol extract of Amaranthus cruentus was prepared. Acute oral toxicity of the extract was determined by Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD) Guideline 423. Doses of 200 and 400 mg/kg were used in the present study. Phenylhydrazine (60 mg/kg, intraperitoneal injection for three consecutive days) was used to induce anemia in rats. After anemia induction, animals were treated with standard preparation and extract. Amaranthus cruentus extract significantly aided in restoring the levels of red blood cells, white blood cells (WBCs), and hemoglobin. There was also an increase in hematocrit. Thus, it can be concluded that Amaranthus cruentus is a rich source of phytochemicals that are responsible for demonstrating hematopoietic effects. Isolation and structure elucidation of constituents, responsible for antianemic activity, is necessary to affirm the aforementioned effect.