Protective Activity of Palm Oil Extracts against Dichlorvos Poisoning in Rats: Biochemical Parameters and Mechanisms of Action

Abstract

Protective activity on biochemical parameters and possible mechanisms of action of palm oil extracts were investigated in orally Dichlorvos poisoned rats and the efficacy of treatments in the poisoned rats. The safety profile of the extracts was evaluated via acute toxicity studies which was done in two phases. To screen for phytochemicals, present in this extract. This study was carried out in Pharmacy and KIUTH laboratories, Kampala International University, Uganda. Wistar rats of both sexes, weighing 85g and above were used for the study. Selection of rats was done by simple random sampling. At the end of the administration, plasma biochemical parameters were measured as indices of organ toxicity. The red palm oil used in treatment of Dichlorvos poisoned rats caused a reduction in concentration of some of the biochemical parameters of the rats when given simultaneously compared to the kernel oil combinations. Administration of palm oil does not have prophylactic effect against the poison. However, it does seem to have similar protective effects against oxidative stress with ascorbic acid. In summary the administration of palm oil seemed to have limited ameliorative role against Dichlorvos poisoning in rats. Keywords: Dichlorvos, palm oil, palm kernel oil, rats, acute toxicity, oxidative stress.