Abstract

Background of study: Ocimum gratissimum has been reported to be rich in natural antioxidants such as flavonoids. This study aims to investigate the potential ameliorative effects of Ocimum gratissimum extract against aluminium-induced hepatoxicity in rat model. Methods: Thirty female wistar rats (240 g) were randomly assigned to seven groups (1, 2A, 2B, 3, 4, 5 and 6). Group 1 served as the control group and received feed and water ad libitum. Groups 2A and 2B received a single dose of 32.5 mg/kg b.w of aluminium nitrate. Groups 3 and 4 received 200 mg/kg and 300 mg/kg b.w of Ocimum gratissimum respectively after 24 hours of administration of a single dose of 32.5 mg/kg of aluminium nitrate. Both groups 5 and 6 received 400 mg/kg b.w of Ocimum gratissimum after 24 hours of administration of a single dose of 32.5 mg/kg of aluminium nitrate. Results: Histological studies show degenerative changes in the liver cytoarchitecture of groups treated with aluminium. Relative to the control group, treatment with aluminium significantly raised the bilirubin levels and serum activities of ALT, AST and ALP. Regenerative changes were observed after the extract administration. Conclusion: From this study, it appears that Ocimum gratissimum extract is capable of ameliorating the hepatotoxic effects of aluminium.

Keywords: Ocimum gratissimum extract, Aluminium, Oxidative stress, Antioxidant enzymes, Hepatotoxicity, Liver