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VOL. 11, ISSUE 1 (2026)
Cardio-protective effects of n-hexane stem extract of Desmodium Velutinum in Albino Wistar Rats
Authors
Erhabor O Destiny, Erienu K Obruche, Etuwoma P Onize, Onadje F Ovwighose, Okpara S Samdavid
Abstract
This study investigates the cardioprotective
effects of the N-hexane extract of Desmodium velutinum stem on albino Wistar
rats. The experimental animals were divided into four groups, each receiving
different dietary and treatment regimens. Rats in groups one, three, and four
were orally fed, using a syringe without a needle, with 6 ml of a
lipoprotein-rich food mixture containing 3.6 g of cow’s brain twice daily for
seven consecutive days. Group two rats served as a control and were provided
only with grower’s mash and water during the same period. Following the initial
feeding, rats in group three were administered 2 ml of Vasoprin orally once
daily for three days, while rats in group four received 0.5 ml of the N-hexane
extract of Desmodium velutinum stem orally once daily for the same duration.
During the treatment phase, all rats continued to have access to grower’s mash
and water. Biochemical analysis revealed that rats fed with cow’s brain
exhibited significant elevations in cardiac marker enzymes, including creatine
kinase (CK), creatine kinase-MB (CK-MB), aspartate transaminase (AST), alanine
transaminase (ALT), and lactate dehydrogenase (LDH), indicating induced cardiac
stress. Notably, administration of the N-hexane extract resulted in a
pronounced reduction in these enzyme activities, suggesting a protective effect
on cardiac tissue. Comparatively, the extract demonstrated a cardioprotective
potential greater than that of Vasoprin. These findings indicate that the
N-hexane extract of Desmodium velutinum stem may serve as an effective
cardioprotective agent, with potential for enhanced efficacy if administered at
optimized dosages over extended periods. Further studies are warranted to
establish its therapeutic dosage and underlying mechanisms.
Pages:156-161
How to cite this article:
Erhabor O Destiny, Erienu K Obruche, Etuwoma P Onize, Onadje F Ovwighose, Okpara S Samdavid "Cardio-protective effects of n-hexane stem extract of Desmodium Velutinum in Albino Wistar Rats". International Journal of Research in Pharmacy and
Pharmaceutical Sciences, Vol 11, Issue 1, 2026, Pages 156-161
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