The effects of garlic (Allium sativum) extracts on the L-thyroxine-induced hyperthyroidism in male rats

Abstract

Thyroid hormone level variations relate to physiological and clinical anomalies. Many studies showed that garlic has protective effects on various body systems. This study aimed to determine the beneficial effects of garlic extracts against l-thyroxine-induced male rat hyperthyroidism. 25 male rats were randomly grouped into five groups: healthy rats (Control), rats subcutaneously injected with l-thyroxine 0.3 mg/kg BW, and rats given orally doses (100, 150, and 200 mg/kg BW/d) of garlic extracts. Blood samples were taken from the heart at the end of the experiment to identify T3 and T4 using Elisa. The results showed that hyperthyroid rats had a significant increase (p < 0.05) in serum concentrations of T3 and T4 relative to the negative control group, and no significant increase in serum concentrations of T3 and T4 relative to the negative control group at the doses of 100 and 200 mg/kg. However, at the dose of 150 mg/kg BW, the serum concentrations of T3 and T4 decreased. Hyperthyroid rats receiving 100 g/kg garlic extracts were more beneficial in enhancing the behavior of hyperthyroid rats than those in the control group. In conclusion, garlic extracts could affect the level of T3 and T4 in a dose-dependent manner.