Efficacy of aqueous extracts of Genipa americana L. (Rubiaceae) in inhibiting larval development and eclosion of gastrointestinal nematodes of sheep

Abstract

The anthelminthic efficacy in vitro of the aqueous extract of Genipa americana L. leaves was evaluated at final concentrations of 20, 30, 50, 75 and 100 mg (dry matter)/mL through egg hatching inhibition (EHI) tests and quantitative cultures. The observed lethal concentration LC₉₀ values for hatching and L3 development inhibition were 79.8 and 28.7 mg/mL, respectively. The extract was more effective in larval development inhibition (LDI) than in hatching inhibition. Phytochemical analysis revealed tannins and flavonoids in the extract. The utilisation of G. americana as an anthelminthic may represent a viable alternative to synthetic products, although further studies are needed to verify its in vivo efficacy and to assess its toxicity in sheep.

Keywords:

• anthelminthic
• quantitative coproculture
• egg hatching inhibition
• phytotherapy
• small ruminants

Acknowledgements

We thank the Banco do Nordeste of the Brazil for providing financial support. The authors are also grateful to Coordenacão de Aperfeiçoamento de Pessoal de Nível Superior CAPES, Brasília, DF, Brazil, Pro-Reitoria de Pesquia da Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais and the Fundação de Amparo à Pesquisa de Minas Gerais FAPEMIG.