Abstract

There is an increased use of the Ficus capensis plant and concerns about safety alongside efficacy have been raised. The aim of this work is to study the total protein, bilirubin and serum liver enzyme activities in albino rats administered graded concentrations of ethanol extract of F. capensis leaf. Twenty-four albino rats were shared into four groups and different concentrations of the leaf extract were administered with respect to body weight (250, 150 and 100 mg/kg) respectively while the fourth group (Control) was administered distilled water only. The serum liver enzymes activities were determined using the Randox Laboratory Kit while the total protein and bilirubin concentrations were determined by Spectrophotometric methods. The results showed p≤0.05 decrease in total protein and globulin concentrations, with an increase in bilirubin and albumin/globulin concentration and a slight decrease in the albumin concentration in 250 and 150 mg/kg. Furthermore, the administration of the extract caused p≤0.05 increase in the enzyme activity of alkaline phosphatase and alanine transaminase at 250 and 150 mg/kg. For aspartate transaminase, there was p≤0.05 increase in 250 mg/kg. From the study, the liver is implicated in the administration of high doses of ethanol extract of F. capensis hence lower doses are recommended.

Key words: Ficus capensis, liver enzymes, total protein, bilirubin, spectrophotometer.