Biochemical investigations of Albino rats orally exposed to Bonny light crude oil and leaf extract of Cnidoscolus aconitifolius

Abstract

Purpose: Bonny light crude oil has been used in folkloric medicine in treating different diseases in combination with Medicinal plants. Cnidoscolus aconitifolius has been reported to possess medicinal properties. This study is aimed at determining experimentally if the acclaimed benefits are true. Methodology: This study investigated the biochemical effect of Bonny light crude oil and Cnidoscolus aconitifolius leaf extract orally administered to albino rats at different concentrations. In this study, albino rats were orally exposed to different concentrations of Bonny light oil (BLCO) and Cnidoscolus aconitifolius leaf extract individually and in combination. Findings: The results after 21days of exposure revealed that BLCO and Cnidoscolus aconitifolius induction at concentrations of 250mg/kgb.wt and 500mg/kgb.wt could induce physiological damage within 21days. This is revealed by the results obtained from the histological analysis of the testes and the detectable heavy metal concentration in the blood samples. Unique Contribution to Theory, Policy and Practice:  As a result, the induction of this leaf extract and BLCO at concentrations of 250mgf/kgb.wt and 500mg/kgb.wt consecutively for 21days may be injurious to health as revealed by the results from the histological analysis. Therefore, it is recommended that the use of this plant leaf extract and BLCO in folkloric medicine at concentrations similar to the ones used in this research should be avoided.