Plasma Lipid Profile in Non-Diabetic Rats Treated with Extracts of Triplochiton Scleroxylon K. Schum

In the view to ascertain any possible disposition of aqueous and 50% ethanol extracts of Triplochiton scleroxylon to cardiovascular diseases, plasma lipid profile and glucose concentration were investigated in non-diabetic rats (Wistar strain). 200 mg extracts per kilogramme body weight was administered to test males rats, weighing between 130 to 186 g, twice daily (p. o.) by gavage technique. Plasma samples from the rats were analysed periodically by standard methods requiring spectrophotometry. Both aqueous and 50% ethanol extracts of T. scleroxylon demonstrated significant glucose lowering potentials (P < 0.05) reminiscent of herbs used in treating diabetes mellitus. Extracts also caused significant lowering of other diabetic indices in the plasma viz., total cholesterol, triglyceride and very low density lipoprotein relative to controls (P < 0.05). Significant increase in plasma high density lipoprotein (good cholesterol) and a decrease in low density lipoprotein (bad cholesterol) were characteristic of both extracts (P < 0.05). However, aqueous extract of T. scleroxylon, demonstrated a greater hypoglycaemic properties, potential to reduce significantly dangerous levels of blood lipids and increase in plasma high density lipoprotein than 50% ethanol extract. No adverse histological changes were observed in the organs investigated at 200 mg aqueous extract per kilogramme body weight of rats. 50% ethanol extract at the same dose caused tubular necrosis and mild fatty changes in the kidneys and liver respectively. The hearts of rats tolerated the extracts of T. scleroxylon. Therefore, aqueous extract will confer greater protection against cardiovascular diseases and this is a justification for its use as a safer treatment for diabetes mellitus in some parts of Nigeria.