Effect of Telfaira occidentalis (Fluted Pumpkin) Extract on the Intraocular Pressure of Normotensive Emmetropic Igbo Adults.

Abstract

Telfaira occidentalis is widely consumed worldwide. The effect of acute ingestion of T. occidentalis extract on the intraocular pressure of 40 healthy young normotensive emmetropic Igbos of Eastern Nigeria (mean age, 22.27 + 2.7 yr) was investigated. The IOP of each subject was measured pre-and post-ingestion of 250ml of T. occidentalis at 15min interval for 60 min. Results showed peak increase of IOP after 15min of 20.59 mmHg, or (23,5%) after consumption and reduced towards baseline value (16.7mmHg). Results further showed that the increase was not sustained and transient or (16.79 mmHg) representing 0.74%. The peak effect of T. occidentalis was found to be statiscally significant (p> 0.05). It is suggested that consumption of T. occidentailis be done with caution

Key Words:Telfaira occidentalis, Glaucoma, Vision loss, emmetropic