The effect of ethanolic extract of Basella alba L. Leaves on Lead induced hepatotoxicity in male albino wistar rats (Rattus norvegicus)

Abstract

Basella alba L. is claimed to be used as an antidote for poisons but has not been scientific adequately explored. This work investigated the effect of ethanolic extract of Basella alba on lead- induced hepatotoxicity in male rats. 24 male albino Wistar rats were randomly divided into 4 groups. Group 1 was given orally 10ml/kg normal saline while Group 2 received 50mg/kg of Lead Acetate for 4 weeks. Group 3 received 50mg/kg of Lead Acetate for first week and 250mg/kg Basella alba for 3 weeks. Group 4 received 250mg/kg of Basella alba for first week and 50mg/kg of Lead Acetate for the next 3 weeks. Then, levels of the liver enzymes in the serum were measured. The results showed that the levels of alkaline phosphatase, Aspartate aminotransferase and Alanine aminotransferase were significantly reduced while Glutathione was significantly increased in Basella alba treated Groups compared to Lead Control Group at (p < 0.05). The data suggests that Basella alba reduces lead toxicity.