Evaluation of hematological and biochemical parameters of liver function following consumption of Vitex doniana fruit syrup

Abstract

Background:  Vitex doniana is a tropical plant whose leaves and fruits are traditionally utilized for medicinal and nutritional purposes.

Aims: This study aimed to evaluate the hematological and biochemical effects of Vitex doniana fruit syrup on liver function using an animal model.  

Subjects and Methods: Male and female mice with weighing between 24 – 32 g were utilized in this study. Group 1 served as the negative control and was provided with feed and water. Groups 2 – 6 were orally administered single doses of the syrup at concentrations of 25, 30, 35, 40, and 45 mL for 14 days. Hematological parameters were analyzed using an automated hematologic analyzer. In vivo antioxidant and biochemical assays were conducted using standard chemical methods, while histopathological assessments were performed using hematoxylin and eosin staining.  

Results:  The mice showed a weight gain ranging from 8.12 to 9.81 g over the study period. An increase was observed in red blood cell count (7.32 – 7.45 m/cu.mm), white blood cells (4.30 – 4.35 t/cu.mm), lymphocytes (55.21 – 54.72%), neutrophils (21.64 – 12.70%), and packed cell volume (PCV) (41.04 – 41.16%). Antioxidant activity showed catalase values between 50.20–58.21 µM/g, glutathione (23.41 – 28.34 µM/g), and lipid peroxidation levels of 93.54 – 106.21 µM/g). Biochemical analysis revealed a reduction in alkaline phosphate (91.17 – 85.24 IU/L), aspartate aminotransferase (58.67 – 31.56 IU/L), and alanine aminotransferase (58.16 to 43.36 IU/L). Decreases were also observed in total bilirubin, creatinine, cholesterol, and urea levels. However, an increase in total albumin (3.16 – 3.38 mg/dL), total protein (6.42 – 6.74 mg/dL), and uric acid (7.06 – 5.10 mg/dL) was recorded with increasing syrup concentrations.

Conclusion: The study concludes that Vitex doniana fruit syrup poses no adverse health implications. On the contrary, it exhibits potential for blood maintenance, antioxidant activity, and supports enzymatic functions beneficial for liver health.

 Keywords: Antioxidants, biomarkers, hematology, liver function, syrup, V. doniana