Microanatomical Effect of ethanolic extract of Garcinia kola on the lung of Swiss albino mice

Abstract

Aims and Objectives: To histologically evaluate the possible effect of ethanolic extract of Garcinia kola seeds on the lung tissue in Swiss albino mice. Methodology: Garcinia kola seeds were cut in pieces, oven dried at 40°C for 4 days and then grounded to a fine powder. The powder was extracted with ethanol (70% v/v) and concentrated and dried under vacuum. The animals were randomly assigned into groups A, B and C (n=10).Groups B and C were administered with 10 and 20mg/kg doses of the extract respectively; an equivalent volume of normal saline was given to group A (control group) for twenty one consecutive days. On the twenty second day the animals were sacrificed, the lungs excised and fixed in 10% formol saline for histological analysis. Results: The treated groups present a dilatory effect on the alveolar ducts, alveolar sacs and alveoli. There was no observable loss of alveolar architecture, no emphysematous areas and no alveolar congestion in the treated groups. Conclusion: It may be inferred from the present results that intake of G. kola seed extract for twenty one consecutive days improves respiratory activities which may be due to its antioxidant properties in Swiss albino mice.