The Hypolipidemic Effect of Aqueous Extract of Hibiscus sabdariffa on Paracetamol-induced Hepatotoxicity in Albino Wistar Rats

Aim of the Study: This study was undertaken to ascertain if Hibiscus sabdariffa extract can affect the lipid profile (Total cholesterol (TC), triglycerides (TG), high density lipoprotein (HDL), very low density lipoprotein (VLDL), and low density lipoprotein (LDL)) levels in a paracetamol- induced hepatotoxicity using albino Wistar rat as a model.

Materials and Methods: Thirty (30) rats used for this study were divided into three groups. Group A (n=10) served as control. Group B (n=10) was administered paracetamol only at a dose of 750 mg/kg body weight. Group C (n=10) was administered paracetamol (dose 750 mg/kg body weight) and aqueous extract of H. sabdariffa (dose 10 ml/kg body weight) of the animal for 3 weeks. All animals were allowed free access to clean drinking water and normal rat chow.

Results: Results of the study revealed that TC was significantly lower (p<0.05) in the paracetamol + H. sabdariffa-treated group as compared to paracetamol-treated group and control respectively. Similar trend was observed with TG, VLDL-c, LDL-c and HDL-c. However, the decrease in HDL-c was not statistically significant when compared to control.

Conclusion: The presence of bioactive constituents vis; anthocyanins, flavonoids, polyvenols and free radical scavenging properties in H. sabdariffa enabled a hypolipidemic effect on the animals by lowering the levels of serum TG, VLDL-c, LDL-c despite challenge on the liver. However, it was unable to produce significant effect on HDL concentration -very important cholesterol required in high level to maintain homeostasis inside the body. This may be due to the challenge on the liver as a result of the paracetamol abuse.