Effects of Ethanol Extract of Hymenocardia acida Leaves on Aluminium Chloride-Induced Toxicity in Male Albino Rats

Abstract

Background: The current Study investigated the effects of aqueous extract of H. Acida leaves on Aluminium Chloride induced toxicity in male albino rats. Thiobarbituric acid reactive substances, Biochemical and Haematological parameters were assayed in order to determine the toxic effect of AlCl3 and the ameliorative effects of the extract. Methods: Twenty (20) rats grouped into four (n=5) were administered AlCl3 and the aqueous leaves extract based on the experimental design. The animals were sacrificed after the experimental period of seven (7) days, blood was collected for assay of the biochemical and haematological parameters by cardiac puncture while the liver tissues were harvested and homogenised for the determination of Thiobarbituric acid Reactive Substances (TBARS). Results: ALT, AST, Bilirubin and Glucose levels were significantly increased (p<0.05) in groups treated with AlCl3 when compared to the normal control whereas treatment with plant extracts ameliorates the increase. The RBC, Hb, PCV and Platelet levels increased significantly (p<0.05) particularly in the groups treated with H. Acida aqueous extract when compared to the normal control. The TBARS level initially increased due to AlCl3 toxicity was decreased on treatment with aqueous plant extract. Conclusion: It can be concluded however that the extract demonstrated potentials in ameliorating deleterious effects of aluminium chloride intoxication. Hence, the extract showed mild toxicity level considering the parameters in question.