Histopathological effects of Averon®, an indigenous herbal formulation, on Cyclophosphamide - induced immunosuppressed male rats

Abstract

Abstract Introduction: The study investigated the effect of an acclaimed immunoboosting herbal formulation, Averon®, which contains Aloe spp on some basal physiological and pathophysiological profiles in immunomodulated male rats. Materials and Methods: Six groups of male rats were used for the study: control group received water and pelletized food ad libitum, Negative control Cyclophosphamide-treated group (30mg/kg i.p), two groups pre-treated with Cyclophosphamide (30mg/kg i.p) and followed by oral 200mg/kg and 400 mg/kg Averon® respectively, two groups orally pre-treated with 200mg/kg and 400 mg/kg Averon® respectively and followed by Cyclophosphamide (30mg/kg i.p) on the last three days. The experimental design was characterized by observations for behavioral changes in the rats, changes in body weight, food consumption, water intake and gross histopathological changes after sacriice. Results: The results revealed the adverse effects in the cyclophosphamide pre-treated groups in the behavioral pattern, significant decrease in body weights at several p-values, significant decrease in food intake (p< 0.05), significant drop in water consumption and toxicological effects on the studied organs. The reverse was true for the Averon®-pretreated groups: significant increase in body weights, food intake and water consumption. The adverse effect of cyclophosphamide was most pronounced on the lungs with little or no amelioration of the adverse effects on the pulmonary milieu. However, there was remarkable recovery on the livers, kidneys and the hearts on treatment with Averon®, particularly at the higher doses. Conclusion: Averon® showed tissue ameliorating potential except on the lungs, hence the need for therapeutic monitoring when administered to immunosuppressed subjects.