Effect of Basil Leaves Extract (Ocimum basilicum) on Growth, Hematology, Serum Biochemistry and Organ Histology in Male Albino Rats Fed High Dietary Fat.

Abstract

Cholesterol is essential for the body to produce hormones, vitamin D, and bile acid among other functions. Despite its numerous benefits for metabolic and physiological activities in the body, high levels of low-density cholesterol contribute a major global health concern known as hypercholesterolemia. However, recent studies have explored the Pharmacological Properties of the sweet Basil (Ocimum basilicum), revealing its antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and antimicrobial effects. The present study was conducted with the hypothesis that basil leaf extract might reduce the risks posed to the body weight, haematology, lipid profile and the histology of the liver and kidney from the intake of high levels of cholesterol in Albino rats. Twenty-four (24) male Albino rats were randomly assigned to four treatments in a 2 x 2 factorial arrangement in a completely randomized design (CRD). The factors were dietary fat (Normal or high) and basil leaf extract (Yes or No). The results indicated that, rats on a high-fat diet without basil extract experienced the most significant weight gain (p< 0.05) by day 56. In contrast, rats on high-fat diet with basil extract had minimal weight gain. Basil extract was found to increase significantly (p< 0.05) levels on HDL-C levels while having neutral effect on VLDL-C levels and a significant decrease (p< 0.05) in serum total bilirubin AST, GGT and ALP levels in rats fed highfat diet as compared to animals without the extract. For kidney function test, Basil extract was associated with lowering (p< 0.05) serum creatinine, urea and BUN levels. High fat with no basil extract showed fatty infiltration, swollen hepatocytes and inflammation on liver and kidney tissues while fat diet with basil extract showed reduced fatty infiltration and inflammation. Basil leaf extract on high fat diet was ideal for lowering body weight and increased organ health. Its effect on high-fat diet mitigated some of the adverse effects imposed by dietary fat.