Abstract:

Objectives: The effect of Cocos nucifera water on indices of liver function and oxidative stress in cadmium-induced hepatotoxicity was investigated in albino rats.

Methods: The study utilized 30 Wistar rats divided into 6 groups (A-F) (n=5). Groups A and B served as controls and were given normal saline only via an oral probe. Hepatotoxicity was induced in groups B, D, E, and F by oral administration of 15 mg cadmium / kg body weight for 14 consecutive days. Group B remained untreated; Groups D through F were treated with varying doses of Cocos nucifera water (1.0-3.0) mLkg. b.wt for 14 days and group C received 2.0 mL of Cocos nucifera water without induction. Earlier, the proximate, vitamin, and mineral contents of Cocos nucifera water were determined using standard methods.

Results: The results showed proximate compositions in the following order: moisture> carbohydrates> ash> fat> protein, mineral compositions were as follows: potassium> magnesium> calcium> iron, and vitamins as follows: vitamin C> B9> E> B1. Administration of cadmium to rats caused a significant (p<0.05) increase in the activities of alanine aminotransferase (ALT), aspartate aminotransferase (AST), alkaline phosphatase (ALP), and malondialdehyde (MDA) concentration and decreased catalase (CAT), superoxide dismutase (SOD) and reduced glutathione (GSH). Treatment with Cocos nucifera water significantly (p<0.05) decreased the effects of cadmium in rats. Histopathological examination also indicated that the water moderately restored the liver architecture close to normal.

Conclusion: The results of this study suggest that Cocos nucifera water maybe beneficial in treating liver complications.