Ocimum Gratissimum Linn Causes Dose Dependent Hepatotoxicity in Streptozotocin-Induced Diabetic Wistar Rats

Aim: Hepatoprotective effects of Ethanolic extract Ocimum gratissimum leaves (O. gratissimum) in streptozotocin-induced diabetic rats was studied. Material and Methods: Thirty-six adult rats were assigned into six groups (A, B, C, D, E and F) of six rats each. Group A was the control, while diabetes was induced in groups B, C, D, E and F. Fasting blood glucose was determined and rats with blood glucose concentration >18.0 mmol/L were considered diabetic. Group A (non diabetic control) and F (diabetic control) received normal saline orally, group B received a Metformin at 25 mg/kg while groups C, D and E had O. gratissimum at 400, 600 and 800 mg/kg. Treatment was daily for a period of 28 days for all groups. Fasting blood glucose was monitored weekly, serum levels of Alanine transaminase (ALT) and Aspartate transaminase (AST) were measured on day twenty eight. Animals were sacrificed, liver sections processed for histological study. Statistical analysis was carried out using a one way ANOVA followed by a post-hoc test. Results: Results showed reduction in blood sugar and increase in biochemical and histologic markers of hepatic injury. Conclusion: Ethanolic extract of O. gratissimum causes dose dependent hepatic injury despite its glucose lowering ability.