Effects of Aqueous and Ethanolic Extracts of Cyperusesculentus (Tiger Nut) on Bio-Markers of Hepatoxicity, Oxidative Stress and Lipidemic Indices.

Abstract

Cyperusesculentus(Tiger nuts) a perennial plant has been reported to be of great therapeutic value, consequently this study seeks to investigate the effect of aqueous and ethanolic extract of tiger nut on biomarkers of hepatoxicity, oxidative stress and lipidemic indices in albino Wistar rats. Twenty one (21) male albino Wistar rats weighing 180 – 240g were randomly assigned into three groups of seven rats each. Group 1 served as control, while Groups 2 and 3 were orally administered 400 mg/kg bw aqueous and ethanolic extract of tiger nut respectively for six weeks, after which biomarkers of hepatoxicity, oxidative stress and lipid profile were determined in the sera.It was observed thatTc, LDL and VLDL level in the Tiger nut extract treated groups were significantly reduced (p<0.001 and p<0.05) when compared with that of the control group, but this decrease was more pronounce in the aqueous extract treated group. Conversely the HDL in the extract treated groups were significantly increased (p<0.01) when compared with that of control group respectively, but this increase was more pronounce in the aqueous extract treated group. Also CAT, SOD and GPx activities in the aqueous extract treated groups were significantly increased (p<0.001) while, MDA, ALT, ALP and AST activities were significantly decreased (p<0.001) when compared with that of the control group. In conclusion,Consumption of tiger nut extracts (especially aqueous extract)  possess anti-atherogenic, antioxidant and hepato-protective effects therefore its consumption in decoction of alcohol should be discouraged.