Effect of Aqueous and Methanolic Extract of Annona muricata Stem Bark on Liver Enzymes in Normal Sprague Dawley Rats

The use of plant extracts to treat diseases in herbal medicine has the potential of causing toxic effects, though of natural origin, it may not be safe. This study evaluated the effect of aqueous and methanolic extract of Annona muricata stem bark consumption in normal rats. Fresh stem bark of Annona muricata (Sour soup) was collected, pulverized, extracted with distilled water or methanol (Aqueous or Methanolic extract). The rats were divided into six (6) groups of five (5) rats per group, for aqueous or methanolic extract. Group 1 (control) rats were administered distilled water, while groups 2, 3, 4, 5 and 6 were administered 200, 500, 1000, 3000 and 5000 mg/kg body weight of aqueous and methanolic extract for 28 days. Liver function indices in the serum and histopathological evaluation of the organ were performed. ALT levels at 200 and 500 mg/kg in aqueous or methanolic extract were significantly (p<0.05) altered. Oral administration of aqueous extract significantly (p<0.05) reduced the concentrations of total bilirubin and increased (p<0.05) total protein in a dose-dependent manner. The study showed that oral administration of aqueous or methanolic extract did not have any deleterious effects on the liver architecture.