EFFECT OF METHANOL EXTRACT OF DELONIX REGIA ON FREE RADICAL SCAVENGERS AND LIPID PROFILE OF WISTAR ALBINO RATS

Aloh G.S., Obeagu Emmanue Ifeanyi*, Odo Christian Emeka, Obeagu Getrude Uzoma, Okpara Kingsley Ezechukwu, and Kanu Stella Ngozika

ABSTRACT

Methanol extract of Delonix regia was tried at two doses (250mg and 500mg per kg body weight) for its effect on free radical scavengers and lipid profile of albino rats. Serum levels of superoxide dismutase (SOD) and catalase (CAT) were significantly (P<0.05) lower in the animals that received extract (both doses) than both controls. Also, GSH levels were lower in the animals that received the extract than both controls. However, malondialdehyde (MDA) levels were significantly elevated (P<0.05) in the rats that received the extract when compared with the controls. Vitamins C and E levels did not display dose-dependence and did not differ significantly (P>0.05) from those of the controls. The mean HDL and LDL levels in both groups of rats did not differ significantly (P<0.05) at 250mg but at 500mg, HDL level was significantly lowered and LDL remained constant. Irrespective of dosage, the total cholesterol and triacylglycerol levels of the experimental rats did not differ from those of the controls. The Delonix regia extract displayed mild antioxidant effect and little elevation of HDL and other bad lipids.

Keywords: Delonix regia, malondialdehyde (MDA), mild antioxidant effect.