Objective: The methanol extract of Lippia nodiflora (MELN) (Verbenaceae) was evaluated for antitumor activity against Ehrlich's ascites carcinoma (EAC) bearing Swiss albino mice.Methods: MELN was administered at 200 and 400mg/kg body weight daily for 9 days after 24 h of tumor inoculation. After 18 h fasting, mice were sacrificed. The present study deals with the effect of MELN on the growth of transplantable murine tumor, life span of EAC bearing hosts. Hematological profiles and biochemical parameters were estimated for hepato-renal function and metabolism. Further, Antioxidant enzyme activities were investigated.Results: MELN showed significant (p < 0.001) decrease in tumor volume, packed cell volume and viable cell count and elevated the life span of EAC tumor bearing mice. Hematological profiles reverted to more/less normal levels in extract treated mice. The extract marginally altered serum enzymes, total proteins and bilirubin compared with that of EAC bearing mice. MELN significantly (p < 0.001) decreased the levels of lipid peroxidation and increased the levels of GSH, CAT and SOD.Conclusion: The results of the present study suggest that MELN exhibited significant antitumor activity may be due to the increase of antioxidant activity in EAC bearing mice.
©2011 Walter de Gruyter GmbH & Co. KG, Berlin/Boston
