Histological effects of aqueous extract of Allium sativum (Alliaceae) bulb on the lungs of adult wistar rats

Abstract

Allium sativum , (garlic) is a popular medicinal plant and a member of the Alliaceae family used for treatments of various ailments. The study was aimed at investigating the histological effects of aqueous extract of Allium sativum bulb on the lungs, an organ of the mononuclear phagocyte system using adult Wistar Rats. The aqueous extract of Allium sativum bulb was administered orally at doses of 150, 300 and 600mg/kg body weight daily over a period of five weeks to adult Wistar rats in experimental groups B, C and D respectively. Group A experimental rats served as control and were administered distilled water daily during the period of the experiment. Animals in all experimental groups were fed with commercial animal feeds and water ad’ libidum. At the end of the investigation the lungs were harvested, histologically processed and examined. The results showed opening of the alveolar sacs and bronchioles as well as mild activation of the bronchio-alveolar lymphoid tissues in a dose dependent manner. In conclusion, Allium sativum has immunostimulant effect on the tissue of the mononuclear phagocyte system.