Effect of Garlic (Allium Sativum) and Ginger (Zingiber Officinale) Extracts on Haemato-Biochemical Parameters and Liver Enzyme Activities in Wistar Rats

Abstract

The study was designed to investigate the separate and combined effects of garlic (Allium sativum) and ginger (Zingiber officinale) on haemato-biochemical parameters and liver enzymes activities in Wistar rats. Rats were assigned into the following groups: Group 1: (Control group 1 ml of distilled water); Group 2: (20 mg/kg of garlic); Group 3: (40 mg/kg of garlic); Group 4: (20 mg/kg of ginger); Group 5: (40 mg/kg of ginger); Group 6: (garlic 10 and ginger 10 mg/kg); Group 7: (garlic 20 and ginger 20 mg/kg). The results obtained showed a significantly (P < 0.05) decreased serum ALT, AST and ALP activities in the experimental groups that received combined doses of garlic (10 mg/kg) and ginger (10 mg/kg) extract when compared to the control group. There was a significantly decreased (P < 0.05) serum AST and ALP activities in the groups that received 20 mg/kg of garlic only when compared to that of the control group. There was a significant decrease (P < 0.05) in serum sodium and potassium concentrations in garlic and ginger extract-treated groups when compared to the control group. There was a significant reduction (P < 0.05) in serum concentration of both ionized and total calcium in the extract-treated groups when compared to the control group. The PCV and Hb concentration in garlic and ginger extract treated groups were lower when compared to that of the control group. The RBC count was higher (P < 0.05) in the groups that received garlic and ginger extract when compared to that of the control group. There was a significant change (P < 0.05) in the total WBC in the groups that received 20 mg/kg of ginger extract and its combination with garlic at various doses and 40 mg/kg of ginger and its combination for neutrophils count, when compared to the control group. There was a significant change (P < 0.05) in rats administered with 40 mg/kg of garlic and its combination for lymphocyte and monocyte count, when compared to the control group. The histological findings in the treated rats showed that the combined doses of garlic and ginger extracts adversely affect the histology of liver tissues. In conclusion, co-administration of garlic and ginger to rats significantly decreased the PCV and Hb concentration, with an elevated RBC count. The liver enzymes activities and serum electrolytes were also altered, hence unsafe for consumption in combined form.