Effect of aluminum toxicity and Bacopa monnieri on plasma cortisol level in Wistar albino rats

Abstract

Background: Aluminum is used as cooking utensil, and aluminum foil is used in covering and packing the food. It was known that aluminum is highly reactive, particularly during high temperature. Aluminum accumulates in the brain and other vital organs and causes damage to the tissues. Aims and Objectives: The aim is to study whether aluminum exposure can alter the plasma cortisol level and also to study if aluminum exposure induced alterations in cortisol level could be normalized by the treatment of Bacopa monnieri. Materials and Methods: A total of 24 animals were divided into four groups. Group 1 is control receiving saline, Group 2 receives aluminum, Group 3 receives Bacopa, and Group 4 receives aluminum and Bacopa. After 30 days, blood sample was collected and plasma cortisol level was estimated. Results: Aluminum-treated animals showed a significant increase (df 3, 23; f = 9) when compared with control animals. Whereas, Bacopa alone treated group as well as aluminum- and Bacopa-treated group showed no significant changes compared with control groups animals. Moreover, aluminum-treated animals which received Bacopa showed a significant decrease in cortisol level from aluminum alone treated animals. Conclusion: Aluminum exposure-induced raise in blood cortisol level for 30 days indicates that aluminum may act as a chemical stressor. The aluminum-treated animals receiving Bacopa showed a significant decrease in the cortisol level.