Ameliorative Effects of Aqueous Root Extract of Zingiber officinale on Bifenthrin-Induced Pharyngitis in Wistar Rats

Abstract

Background: Occupational insecticide exposure can lead to pharyngitis, with untreated cases posing significant health risks. This study aimed to investigate the effects of aqueous root extract of Zingiber officinal on bifenthrin-induced pharyngitis in Wistar rats.

Methods:  Thirty adult Wistar rats weighing 238-268 g were divided into 5 groups of 6 rats each. Group A rats received only feed and water. Group B rats were exposed to 2 puffs of bifenthrin for 1 hour daily. Group C rats received 500mg/kg body weight per day (BWT/D) of Zingiber officinale. Groups D and E rats were exposed to bifenthrin and received 250mg/kg and 500mg/kg BWT/D of Zingiber officinale respectively. The extract was given for 30 consecutive days via an orogastric tube. The weights of the animals were recorded weekly and body weight gain computed. On day 30 of exposure, the animals were weighed and euthanized under chloroform anaesthesia and blood was collected for haematological analysis. The pharynx was harvested for histological examination. Data were analyzed using one-way ANOVA and Tukey’s HSD test for multiple comparisons with level of significance set at P<0.05.

Results: Exposure to bifenthrin vapor resulted in reduced mean weight gain (15.60 ± 2.239; P < 0.05). There was no significant change in lymphocyte count (7.65 ± 2.339; P = 0.115) or RBC count (6.69 ± 0.15; P = 0.863). Similarly, no significant alterations were observed in red cell indices, including MCV: 58.48 ± 1.01; P = 0.882) and MCHC: 31.50 ± 0.45; P = 0.116). Histological analysis of pharyngeal tissue revealed abnormal architecture in exposed Group B.

Conclusion: This study demonstrates that Zingiber officinale has a protective role in combating bifenthrin-induced pharyngitis, characterized by reduced severity of superficial erosion of squamous epithelium, subepithelial oedema, vasodilation, and subepithelial inflammation in Wistar rats.