THE EFFECTS OF METHANOLIC LEAF EXTRACT OF COMBRETUM RACEMOSUM (CHRISMAS ROSE) ON THE LIVER OF FEMALE WISTAR ALBINO RATS.

ABSTRACT Medicinal plants have remained an important source of therapeutic agents across many cultures, particularly in developing countries where traditional medicine plays a central role in healthcare. One such plant widely used in ethnomedicine is Combretum racemosum, commonly known in parts of Southern Nigeria as Christmas rose. The leaves of this plant have been traditionally used for the treatment of several ailments including haemorrhoids, infections, toothache, and postpartum complications. Despite its widespread use, the scientific evaluation of its potential effects on vital organs such as the liver remains limited. The present study was designed to investigate the effects of methanolic leaf extract of Combretum racemosum on the liver of female Wistar albino rats. Twenty female Wistar rats weighing between 120 g and 180 g were used for the study and were randomly divided into four experimental groups. The control group received normal rat feed and distilled water, while the experimental groups were administered varying doses of the methanolic leaf extract for a period of 21 days. Biochemical analyses were conducted to determine liver enzyme levels including alanine aminotransferase (ALT), aspartate aminotransferase (AST), and alkaline phosphatase (ALP). Histopathological examinations were also carried out on liver tissues to assess structural changes. The results revealed dose-dependent alterations in liver enzyme levels and observable histological changes in liver tissues of treated animals. These findings suggest that the methanolic leaf extract of Combretum racemosum may influence liver function depending on dosage and duration of exposure. The study provides useful scientific insights into the safety profile of this medicinal plant and contributes to ongoing research on plant-based therapeutic agents.