SUBACUTE EFFECTS OF CANARIUM SCHWEINFURTHII (AFRICAN ELEMI) PULP AQUEOUS EXTRACT ON THE LIVER AND KIDNEY OF WISTAR RATS
Abstract
Canarium schweinfurthii also known as African elemi is a fruit-bearing tree of the family of
Burseraceae and genus of Canarium that serves as a snack for all social groups but mostly the
locals. It’s known to for its high anti-oxidant properties and also a good source of protein and
alternative fat. The aim of this study is to investigate the phytochemical components,
histological and biochemical effects of C. schweinfurthii aqueous pulp extract on the liver
and kidney of wistar rats. Part of the powdered pulp was analyzed for its phytochemical
components. Twenty rats were divided according to their weights into four groups. Group 1
served as control and received food and water only while Group 2 - 4 received single daily C.
schweinfurthii extract dose of 200, 400 and 800 mg/kg body weight respectively for twentyeight days. The animals were bled and then sacrificed under light chloroform anesthesia.
Organs harvested were processed and sections were stained with hematoxylin and eosin stain
and photomicrographed. Blood samples were analyzed for Alanine Transaminase (ALT),
Aspartate Transaminase (AST) and Alkaline Phosphatase (ALP). Results from the
phytochemical analysis of C. schweinfurthii pulp powder showed the presence of saponins,
tannins, proteins, resins in high quantity; reducing sugars and alkaloids in moderate amounts;
and the absence of carbohydrates. Result from the biochemical analysis of the liver serum
markers showed no significant difference (P>0.05). Results from the photomicrograph of the
liver of a rat from the control group presented normal histological features while that from
the low dose, medium dose and high dose groups presented engorged central and portal veins,
mild infiltration and moderate infiltration of inflammatory cells respectively. Results of the
kidney photomicrograph of a rat from the control group resented normal morphology while
that of the low dose and high dose groups presented eroded glomerulus but normal tubular
morphology. In conclusion, the findings of this present study revealed that the extract of
Canarium schweinfurthii pulp exerts mild histolomorphological changes on the liver and
kidney of wistar rats.
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