Publications

Aim: Carry out preliminary phytochemical screening of Balanites aegyptiaca fruitmesocarp and to evaluate the ability of the aqueous extract to ameliorate carbontetrachloride-induced hepatotoxicity in rats by determining liver enzymes, bloodparameters and histopathology.Study Design: Sixty albino rats (Wistar rats) were randomly placed into four groups offifteen animals: Group 1 (normal control), group 2 ( Untreated CCl4 –intoxicated group)while groups 3 and 4 are test groups both administered CCl4 and 0.08 mgkg-1 and 0.19mgkg-1 body weight of concentrated fruit extract respectively orally daily. Administration ofCCl4 was 3 times in a week for 4 weeks at a dose of 1.2 g/kg body weight and plantextract for 3 weeks.Results: Phytochemical screening indicated the presence of saponin, flavonoids,steroids, alkaloids and cardiac glycosides in the fruit mesocarp. Serum total proteins,albumin and conjugated bilirubin were elevated while the liver enzymes activities (alaninetransaminase and alkaline phosphatase) were significantly reduced in the test groups 3and 4 compared to the untreated rats (Group 2). Histological examinations of the rats’