kjhs Volume. 1, Issue 1 (2021)

Contributor(s)

Okesina A.A, Obeten K.E, Eko J, Adekilekun H.A And Lawal A.K
 

Keywords

Spleen Abelmoschus esculentus Toxicology Wistar Rats
 

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Abelmoschus Esculentus Adverse Effect on the Splenic Cyto-Architectural and Morphological Integrity of Male Wistar Rats

Abstract: Abelmoschus esculentus herbaceous hairy annual plant of the mallow family is widely consumed globally. High consumption of this plant may compromise the immune system, if it affects the functions of the spleen, whereas, the spleen is the main filter for blood-borne pathogens and antigens, as well as a key organ for iron metabolism and erythrocyte homeostasis. Our study was aimed at determining the possible toxicological effects of Abelmoscus esculentuson on the spleen of adult Wistar rats. Twenty-one (21) adult Wistar rats weighing about 150-170g were used for this study and were divided into three (3) groups of 7 animals each (n=7). Groups (I-III) received; normal rat feed and water, a low dose of Abelmoschus esculentus 1.0mg/kg BW and a high dose of Abelmoschus esculentus 3.0mg/kg BW respectively. All extracts were given daily by the oral gavage method for fourteen (14) days. Twenty-four hours after the last administration, the animals were sacrificed by cervical dislocation. The spleen was harvested, weighed, and fixed in 10% buffer formalin, sectioned, and processed for microscopic studies. Following the administration of Abelmoschus esculentus, there was a significant increase in the test group. Also, histological observation showed Abelmoschus esculentus could result in various grades of degenerative changes, while prolonged intake at high concentrations may cause adverse effects on the cells of the spleen which may alter the functionality of the spleen. Hence, herbal remedies may help improve organ health, but can cause serious side effects if taken inappropriately.