Original Research Article
Year: 2017 | Month: March | Volume: 4 | Issue: 3 | Pages: 36-41
Histological Effect of Piper Guineense (UZIZA) Leaves on the Liver of Wistar Rats
Joanita Nakatude Wasswa1,3, Terry Nosa Omorodion2, Avwioro Godwin O3, Olawale Saheed Asimiyu3
1Health Services Department, Shell Nigeria Plc
2Department of Medical Laboratory Science, School of Basic Medical Sciences, University of Benin, Benin City, Nigeria,
3Department of Medical Laboratory Science, Babcock University, Ilishan-Remo, Ogun State, Nigeria
Corresponding Author: Terry Nosa Omorodion
ABSTRACT
The use of plant medicine dates back to ancient times, the nearly all year round availability and the relatively cheaper cost of medicinal plants in sub Saharan Africa makes them more attractive as therapeutic agents when compared to the orthodox medicine. The use of herbal medicine is on the increase globally, hence the increased interest on research on herbal formulations and preparations. Some of these plants are used as condiments and ingredients in food thus referred to as local spices. One of such plants used as a local spice in Nigeria is Piper guineense traditionally called ‘Uziza’ amongst the Igbo tribe, ‘Iyere’ amongst the Yoruba tribe, ‘Etinkene’ amongst the Efik and Ibibio tribe and ‘Ebe-ahinhi akpoke’ amongst the Edo tribe. The leaves and seeds of Piper guineense were initially consumed in the Southern part of Nigeria but overtime its consumption has spread across the entire country even into neighboring countries like Benin republic, Ghana, Liberia, Cameroun amongst others Also, its incorporation in intercontinental dishes and its high demand by Nigerians in foreign countries has promoted its use in countries far and wide. The aim of this research is to detect and demonstrate any histological effect of Piper guineense leaves on the liver of Wistar rats. Specific objectives are: To assess behavioral responsiveness of Wistar rats to the leaves of Piper guineense, to detect physical variation in normal body processes/ activities, to harvest and process liver successfully, to assess histological responsiveness of the liver to the leaves of P. guineense, to determine the amount of P. guineense that causes marked histological changes, to identify and compare histological effects of P. guineense leaves when consumed at different doses. During the course of experimental feeding, it was observed that all rats in the experimental groups responded positively to Piper guineense leaves. There was increased agility, faster consumption and enhanced coordination in the rats. There was also a characteristic aggressiveness amongst certain rats in groups four (4) and five (5). At purchase, the rats weighed between 125-145g. During the acclimatization period which lasted for two (2) weeks, three rats died due to what I termed the “Helicopter Syndrome” which is characterized by loss of appetite, emaciation, weakness, dislocation of neck with head leaning to the right, consistent rolling over and vigorous twirling in circular motion during carriage.
Key words: Liver, Piper guineense, wistar rat.
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