Preliminary biochemical and haematological effects of aqueous suspension of pulp of <i>hyphaene thebaica</i> (l) mart in rats

Abstract

Some biochemical and haematological parameters were assayed in rats fed aqueous pulp suspension of hyphaene thebaica (L) mart. Sixteen white albino rats of the wistar strain weighing between 90-110g were grouped into four groups of four rats each. Group 1 served as control while groups 2, 3 and 4 were given 0.5g/kg, 1.0g/kg and 2.5g/kg body weight of the suspension by intubation and in addition maintained on growers mash (ECWA Feeds, Jos) and water adlibitum. The daily oral administration lasted for three weeks and the following biochemical and haematological parameters were assayed: blood glucose, urea, albumin, triglycerides,
cholesterol, total lipids, total proteins, globulins, sodium, potassium and chloride ions, haemoglobin concentration, red and white blood cells counts, packed cell volume and platelet count.results revealed a significant (p<0.05) decreased in the levels of triglycerides, cholesterol and total lipids in addition to total proteins and albumin compared to the control. Also the levels of potassium (K) and chloride (Cl) ions were significantly (p<0.05) decreased and increased respectively compared to control. There was also an increased in the levels of urea, haemoglobin (Hb) concentration, red blood cells (RBC) count and packed cell volume (PCV) compared to control. however, the suspension did not show any significant effect (p>0.05) on glucose , globulin, sodium ion, white blood cells and platelet counts. This study revealed possible hypolipedemic and haematinic potentials of the pulp suspension.

Keywords: Hyphaene thebaica, Toxicity, Aqueous pulp suspension.