Alpinea galanga (L) Extracts Decreases TSH Levels and Balances tri-iodothyronine (T3), Thyroxine (T4) levels with protective effect on Thyroid Tissue in Wistar Rats with Thyroid Disorder

Abstract

In India Endocrine disorders, especially thyroid disorders are prevailing. Among different thyroid disorders hypothyroidism precedes and stands as a challenge in our society. There is a strong need to control its prevalence because it majorly contributes to a large number of chronic disorders. Presently the major choice of therapy is intake of Thyroxine hormone. However there are various alternative medicines, specifically herbal treatments, being reported in the literature and now a day’s the authentic investigation of such herbal treatments is gaining popularity. Present study explores the anti- hypothyroid potential of Alpinea Galanga (L) rhizome extracts. The rhizome extracts were prepared and Acute toxicity studies (425) were performed. Hypothyroidism was induced in female albino rats using Propylthiouracil (PTU) at a dose of 60µg/kg bodyweight orally for one month. Hypothyroidism was confirmed by increased TSH levels in blood. Those animals which were exposed to PTU were treated with standard thyroxine at a dose of 10µg/kg bodyweight by oral route and different extracts were given at a dose of 200mg/kg bodyweight by oral route to their respective groups. Treatment was carried for two months. Methanolic extract at dose of 200mg/kg bodyweight was found more effective in restoring the elevated levels of TSH when compared to the other treated groups. The results of extract indicate less damage to the follicles of thyroid tissue which shows minimizing effect of Alpinea Galanga (L) rhizome extracts over PTU induced Hypothyroidism. Histopathological examination shows the restoration of thyroid follicles by Thyroxine hormone and Rhizome extracts as compared to untreated groups. This study depicts the Thyroid protective and enhancing property of Alpinea Galanga (L) rhizome extracts by lowering TSH levels and by reducing damage to thyroid tissues.