Effects of ethanolic leaf extract of piper guineense on the organ histology of male wistar rats (rattusnovergicus)

This study focused on the adverse effects of ethanolic leaf extract of Piper guineense on selected organs (Kidneys, Liver and Spleen) of male wistar rats. 20 male albino rats were divided into four different groups with 5 rats each and were administered concentrations of 6g/kg, 4g/kg, 3g/kg extract and standard laboratory feed as control, all according to the bodyweight of the animals. The organs were harvested after 28days of extract administration and were collected for histological screenings. Gross examination of the organs showed no differences from the normal. However, histological examination showed marked dose-dependent changes in the organs of the experimental groups. Coagulative necrosis of the tubules, hyperaemic renal vessel, mild centrilobular vacuolar hepatopathy, hepatocellular necrosis, massive haemosiderosis in the red pulp and erythroid hyperplasia in the white pulp were some of the effects seen in the kidneys, liver and spleen respectively. Statistical analysis was done using Dunnet's comparison test to ascertain the effects of extract administration on the weight of the animals. Consumption of Piper guineense as a leaf extract or as spice may not have any adverse histological effects on the organs if taken at levels below 3g/kg BW, however, consumption above this dose will cause marked histological changes in the organs as observed in the results of this research