Abstract

Aim: This study evaluated the effects of the methanolic leaf extract of Newbouldia laevis on the reproductive performance of rabbit does.
Methods: Twenty rabbit does, aged 6 ± 2 months and weighing an average of 1.40 ± 2.00 kg, were housed individually and randomly assigned to four groups of five each. Groups A, B, and C received the leaf extract at doses of 1000 mg/kg, 500 mg/kg, and 250 mg/kg, respectively, while group D served as the control and was given only a standard rabbit diet and water ad libitum for 48 days. The does were bred on day 27 of extract administration and monitored for mortality, conception, and kindling rates.
Results: Phytochemical analysis of the extract revealed the presence of flavonoids, tannins, terpenes, saponins, alkaloids, phenols, and cardiac glycosides, with an LD50 of ≥ 1000 mg/kg. Mortality rates observed were 60.0%, 20%, and 0% in groups A, B, C, and D, respectively. Conception rates in groups A and C were 100.0%, and in groups B and D were 75.0%. The kindling rate in all the groups was 100.0%.
Conclusion: Conception rates were not affected in rabbit does fed 1000 mg/kg and 250 mg/kg of the leaf extract, while at 500 mg/kg, they were affected slightly. Similarly, the kindling rate was not affected in all the groups. Research to explore the effects of the leaf extract from 0 to 250 mg/kg to identify a safer therapeutic dose. Other reproductive parameters in both male and female rabbits are recommended.

Key words: Methanolic Leaf Extract, Newbouldia laevis, Rabbit Does, Reproductive performance.