NEUROLOGIC EFFECTS OF AQUEOUS EXTRACT OF HIBISCUS SABDARIFFA ON CADMIUM CHLORIDE- INDUCED NEUROTOXICITY IN MALE WISTAR RATS

This Study investigated the neurologic effects of aqueous extract of Hibiscus Sabdariffa on cadmium chloride-induce neurotoxicity in male Wister rats. Thirty male wistar rats were grouped as follows; Group A: control, Group B-F: CdCl2 0.3ml; H. sabdariffa 1.5ml; CdCl2 + H. sabdariffa 1.0ml; CdCl2 + H. sabdariffa 1.5ml; CdCl2 + H. sabdariffa 2ml, respectively. Gas chromatography coupled to flame ionization detector, total antioxidant capacity and mineral analysis of H. sabdariffa was done. Oxidative stress markers, muscle function markers and Plasma Electrolyte were assayed. This study lasted for 6 weeks. Blood and brain samples were collected. The phytochemical results showed alkaloids, phytate, anthraquinone and flavonoids. The mineral analysis showed predominantly, Mn, Ca, K and Fe. The biochemical results were in comparison with control. The results were statistically significant at 95% confidence interval. There was an increase in SOD, CAT, GSH, GR and GPx in groups C-F, MDA decreased in group C, E and F while PC decreased in group C and F. There was a decrease in Plasma Creatinine Kinase in groups C to F and increase in AChE in group C. Ca2+ and K+ levels had no significant change. NO level had no significant change in group C, E and F, but increased in group D. This research demonstrated that H. sabdariffa has the potential to improve the neurotoxic effects caused by exposure to cadmium chloride.