Effect of Balanites aegyptiaca (L.) Del.) Seed Oil on Liver and Kidney Biomakers of Albino Rat

Vegetable oil has been used for cocking and ethnomedicinal purpose in developing countries. The aim of this research was to determine the toxicological effect of Balanites aegytiaca seed oil in albino rats. Acute and sub chronic toxicological evaluations were carried out on albino rats. The albino rats were divided into six experimental groups (n = 6 albino rats/ group). Five different doses of Balanites aegytiaca seed oil; 1000mg/kg, 2000mg/kg, 3000mg/kg, 4000mg/kg and 5000mg/kg were administered orally (gavage) to groups 2 – 6 respectively, once per day for 28 consecutive days. While control group received saline with Tween® 80 2%. Standard laboratory methods were used to assess liver and kidney functions indices. The acute toxicity screening revealed that the Balanite aegyptiaca seed oil (BASO) was non-toxic with LD 50 above 5000mg/kg. The liver function test parameters revealed non-significant (p>0.05) difference in serum AST and ALT activities between control group and treated groups. However, there is significant (p<0.05) increased of serum ALP activity in treated groups when compared to normal control group. Serum albumin concentration significantly (p<0.05) decreased in treated groups when compared to normal control group. No significant difference (P>0.05) in the concentration of total protein, total and direct bilirubin observed in treated groups when compared to normal control group. While kidney function test parameters showed alterations in serum creatinine and Potassium concentrations in treated groups compared to normal control group. Oral administration of B. aegyptiaca seed oil for 21 days did not displayed signs organs damage. The results suggest that prolonged consumption of Balanites aegytiaca seed oil could not cause adverse effects on the liver and kidney organs.