Abstract
Background: Liver diseases account for approximately one-third of all mortality in tropical countries, many of which are of significant research interest. This study investigated the effects of the hydromethanolic leaf extract of Craterispermum schweinfurthii on liver function using Wistar rats as experimental models.
Methods: Twenty female Wistar rats weighing between 100 and 250 g were randomly divided into four groups of five rats each and treated daily for 28 days as follows: Group A (negative control) received the extract vehicle only. Groups B, C, and D received 250, 500, and 750 mg/kg body weight of the extract, respectively. On day 29, blood samples were collected via direct cardiac puncture for the determination of serum liver enzyme concentrations. Serum levels of liver enzymes and albumin were assayed using standard laboratory procedures.
Results: Compared to the control group (Group A), daily oral administration of 250 mg/kg body weight of Craterispermum schweinfurthii leaf extract (Group B) caused a considerable but statistically insignificant reduction in the mean values of aspartate aminotransferase (AST), alanine aminotransferase (ALT), and alkaline phosphatase (ALP), while increasing serum albumin concentration. However, significant changes (P < 0.05) were observed in Groups C and D, which received 500 and 750 mg/kg body weight of the extract, respectively. These findings suggest potential hepatoprotective effects of the extract.
Conclusion: The administration of graded doses of Craterispermum schweinfurthii leaf extract significantly improved key liver function parameters. The results support the traditional medicinal use of C. Schweinfurthii
Keywords: Changes; Craterispermum schweinfurthi; functions; liver enzymes.
This content is restricted to site members. If you are an existing user, please log in. New users may register below.