Effects of Dissostis rotundofolia Stem Extract Consumption on some Biochemical Parameters and Hepato-Renal Organs in Rattus norvegicus Rats

Abstract

Dossostis rotundofolia is a plant with many ethno-medicinal uses in tropical Africa. The aim of this study was to assess the effects of the consumption of stem extract of this plant on some biochemical parameters as well as the histology and morphology of hepato-renal organs in Rattus norvegicus rats. Five millilitres blood specimens were withdrawn into lithium heparin anti-coagulated bottles from each of the ten rats (control group) and another ten rats administered with two millilitres of stem extract of the plant twice daily for twenty-eight days (experimental group) followed by the excision of hepato-renal organs for histology/morphological study. Thereafter, the following biochemical parameters: alanine aminotransferase, aspartate aminotransferase, alkaline phosphatase, urea, creatinine and triglyceride were quantitatively measured using a spectrophotometer. The results showed no statistically significant differences (p>0.05) in the mean values of all the measured biochemical parameters (experimental group) as compared with that of the control group which revealed conformity with the histo/morphological study of the hepato-renal organs.
However, the mean value of triglyceride being exception was significantly decreased (p< 0.05). In conclusion, Dissostis rotundofolia stem extract may have no adverse effects on biochemistry and histo/morphology on hepato-renal organs. The use of this plant stem extract for herbal remedy of triglyceridaemia is therefore recommended.