The effect of the mixture of garcinia kola and honey on the liver of wistar rats

Aim: A mixture of honey and Garcinia kola has been used for the treatment of certain dry coughs and diseases. The effect of the recommended dosage of the mixture on the liver was investigated.

Methods: Twenty five Wistar albino rats weighing between 170g and 190g were grouped into 5. There were 5 rats each group. The rats were fed twice daily at 8.00am and 6.00pm with a mixture of G. kola and honey 0.16g/kg + 0.5ml, 0.20g/kg + 0.5ml, 0.24g/kg + 0.5ml, 0.28g/kg + 0.5ml and normal feeds respectively for 14 days. The rats were sacrificed on the 15th day and blood and liver tissues were taken for biochemical analysis and histology respectively.

Results: Aspartate aminotransferase, alanine aminotransferase, bilirubin, alkaline phosphatase and total protein as well as the histology of the liver were not significantly different from the control animals.

Conclusion: Oral intake of one nut G. kola along with 5 ml honey twice daily for 14 days does not have adverse effects on the liver of Wistar rats.