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Abstract

Roselle (Hibiscus sabdariffa L., family Malvaceae) is consumed in Nigeria as a refreshing drink and for therapeutic purposes. This study was to examine the effects of H. sabdariffa calyx extract on the body and organ weight of Albino rats. The second goal was to compare the effects on the target organs via routes of administration (oral against subcutaneous). Sixty Albino rats of both sexes with an average weight of 204.14�±2.1g (Mean�±S.E.M) were assigned by sex, age and weight to a control group (VA and VB) and test groups (IA to IVA and IB to IVB). Empirical measurements on body weight was conducted prior to and after the experiment. They were administered with varying concentrations of the extract by oral and subcutaneous routes (10 to 50 mg/kg) for 30 days at 2 days interval. On day 31, all rats were sacrificed by anaesthetization. The internal organs were excised, weighed, grossed and fixed in Bouinâ��s solution for 48 hrs prior to histological processing. Sections were obtained at 3-5 microns and stained with Mayerâ��s haematoxylin and eosin for light microscopy. No comparable changes are observed histologically. However, gross effects on the organs and body weight of experimental animals showed significant reduction when compared to the control (VA and VB) and test groups (IA to IVA and IB to IVB). In comparison, with the oral administration, empirical measurement showed a massive weight loss in the high dose treated animals (both routes of administration) but are marked in the oral route. Therefore, this study suggests that H. sabdariffa calyx extracts may be used for weight management and control. However, further studies are required to examine the biochemical and hematological effects in Albino rats.

Biography

Email: bolaji.odigie@uniben.edu