Phytochemical Analysis of the Yoruba Medicinal Formulations- "Gbogbo Nise" and its Effect on Some Liver Enzymes

The Yoruba formulation called Gbogbo nise is one of the most widely consumed medicinal formulation in the rural areas of Nigeria. The aim of this study was to screen for the various phytochemicals in this medicinal formulation and the effects of these formulations on some liver enzymes of wistar albino rats. Sixty-four rats irrespective of sex were used in this study. They were divided into six groups (control and Groups A-E); with groups A-E split into three sub-groups for testing at week 2, 4 and 6. Each sub group contained four rats and was administered 2.9μl/Kg B.W of each medicinal formulation. Phytochemical screening indicated the presence of alkaloids, saponins, tannins, flavonoids and terpenoids. Biochemical examination of the serum of experimental groups after 2 weeks of administration, showed an initial reduction in activities of AST, ALT and ALP when compared with control groups. For the results at weeks 4 and 6, all five formulations resulted in significant increase in the level of these marker enzymes. Thus the prolong administration of these medicinal formulation at the dosage used in the study, results in rise in liver enzymes and may be indicative of hepatic damage.