In this study, the effect of aqueous extract of Cola nitida on haemoglobin (Hb), packed cell volume (PCV) and total white blood cell count (tWBC) of albino rats was investigated. Twenty albino rats were used in the study; these were randomly distributed into five groups of four rats per group. Group 1 which served as control was administered with distilled water while groups 2, 3, 4 and 5 received 200, 400, 600 and 800 mg/kg body weight respectively of extract. These treatments were given for seven consecutive days. On the eight day, all animals were sacrificed and blood samples collected for haematological analysis. Results showed that at doses of 600mg/kg body weight and 800mg/kg body weight significant reductions (p< 0.05) in Hb were recorded (88.75±5.56 and 86.50 ± 4. 84 respectively). At these doses PCV values of 26.63± 1.67 and 25.98±1.44respectively were recorded. These were all significantly lower (P< 0.05) than value for the control. Only mild changes were observed in the case of WBC count. The study shows that at high doses kola nut has some deleterious effects on the haematology of mammals. Excess consumption of kola nut is therefore discouraged.
 

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