The Effects of Cymbopogon Citratus Extract on Hydrocarbon- Induced Oxidative Stress and Haematotoxicity in Albino Rats

Abstract

Background: The therapeutic use of medicinal plants and plant products to treat ailments and diseases is very popular in developing countries including Nigeria. Hence the need to scientifically analyse the ameliorating effects of these plants. Cymbopogon citratus is one of such medicinal plants, popular for its tea which is considered a healthy and refreshing beverage that is largely consumed worldwide as a substitute for other tea varieties because of its pleasant aroma and taste. Gasoline is a volatile liquid that contributes to significant environmental pollution and has been shown to be hazardous to the general population due to its ability to induce extensive adverse health effects including oxidative stress and haematotoxicity. Aim: The aim of this study is to evaluate how a decoction created from lemongrass leaves (cymbopogon citratus) affects the consequences of gasoline vapour (GV) exposure. Methodology: Random selection was used to pick thirty albino rats, which were then divided into six groups (n = 5 per group). Animals in group A served as unexposed controls, while animals in group B. They underwent exposure to gasoline vapour (GV) while concurrently being administered an extract derived from lemongrass leave (cymbopogon citratus). (250 mg/kg, 500 mg/kg, and 1000 mg/kg respectively) and animals in group F were exposed to GV and simultaneously received a co-administration of vitamin C (200 mg/kg) for the same duration. Result: Exposure of animals to GV alone significantly (p < 0.05) increased malondialdehyde levels and decreased superoxide dismutase level and catalase levels. But there was no significant change in haematological parameters except for Mean Corpuscular Haemoglobin to the corresponding values in the control group. Supplementation with C. citratus leaf decoction and vitamin C reversed these GV-induced chan

Keywords

References