Abstract

Irvingia gabonensis, which is consumed widely in Nigeria, has been shown to possess hypoglycaemic/anti-diabetic properties. In this study, the long term effects of aqueous extracts of I. gabonensis bark, orally administered daily, on body weight, blood glucose and liver function of normal rabbits were monitored at pre-determined intervals for 24 weeks. Body weight and fasting blood sugar were significantly (p<0.05) reduced in the medicinal plant treated rabbits. Indices of hepato-cellular injury, alanine transaminase and aspartate transaminase were initially slightly elevated, while markers of cholestasis, alkaline phosphatase and γ-glutamyl transferase were initially significantly (p<0.05) increased. These parameters returned to the levels of control midway into the monitoring period and tissue enzymes were not depleted, suggesting that the initial toxic response was not sustained. Administration of I. gabonensis bark had no effect on serum total proteins, albumin and globulins, as well as serum total and direct bilirubin concentrations. The sustained anti-obesity and hypoglycaemic effects, as well as the relative low liver toxicity ofI. gabonensis bark extracts makes it an important candidate for the treatment of diabetes.

Key words: Irvingia gabonensis, hypoglycaemic/anti-diabetic, liver function, medicinal plants, toxicity; anti-obesity.