Hepatic Impact of <i>Mandragora officinarum</i> Leaf Extract on Wistar Albino Rats

Abstract

This study evaluates the hepatic effects of Mandragora officinarum leaf extract on wistar albino rats. A total of twenty-four (24) rats were randomly divided into 4 groups labeled A, B, C and D and kept in a well-ventilated room. Group A served as control and these rats were fed distilled water. Rats in groups B, C, and D were given three (3) different doses of the leaf extract (1.5, 3.5 and 5.0 mL/KgBW) respectively. They were administered once daily for 14 and 28 days consecutively. Animals were sacrificed 24 hours after the last treatment. Blood samples were collected into heparinized sample bottles for analysis. Aspartate aminotransferase, Alanine aminotransferase and histology results were normal when the leaf extract was given for 14 days. Alkaline phosphatase significantly decreased within the same time interval. Alkaline phosphatase increased in a dose-dependent manner for 28 days. All other liver enzymes were within normal limits. Histopathological changes were seen in all doses when Mandragora officinarum leaf extract was used for 28 days. These changes also worsened with increasing doses. This suggests that the use of mandragora officinarum leaf extract for long periods at a time can cause hepatic damage.