Effects of Aqueous Extract of Pigeon Pea  (Cajanus cajan) Seed on the Liver of Pregnant  Wister Rats

OO Ofulue; CN Izah

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Affiliations

OO Ofulue
Department of Human physiology, Delta State University, Abraka, Nigeria.

CN Izah
Department of Human Physiology, Dennis Osadebe University, Asaba, Nigeria.

How to Cite

Ofulue, O., & Izah, C. (2025). Effects of Aqueous Extract of Pigeon Pea (Cajanus cajan) Seed on the Liver of Pregnant Wister Rats. International Journal of Forensic Medical Investigation, 11(1). Retrieved from https://ijfmi.org/index.php/JSD/article/view/204

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Effects of Aqueous Extract of Pigeon Pea (Cajanus cajan) Seed on the Liver of Pregnant Wister Rats

OO Ofulue ,
CN Izah

Vol 11 No 1 (2025): International Journal of Forensic Medical Investigation

Submitted: Jun 19, 2025

Published: Apr 11, 2025

Abstract

Cajanus cajan (pigeon pea) is widely consumed for its nutritional benefits, particularly by pregnant women in western Nigeria. The liver plays a crucial role in metabolism and detoxification, making it essential to assess the effects of Cajanus cajan on liver function during pregnancy. This study examined the impact of an aqueous extract of Cajanus cajan seed on the liver of pregnant Wistar rats. Fifteen rats were divided into three groups: a control group and two treatment groups receiving 200mg/kg and 400 mg/kg of the extract for 21 days. Liver analysis showed no significant changes in liver weight, while the high-dose group exhibited a significant decrease (p<0.05) in alkaline phosphatase (ALP) levels. Other liver enzymes and bilirubin levels remained unchanged. Histological analysis revealed normal liver morphology. These findings suggest that Cajanus cajan seed extract may be hepatoprotective and safe for consumption during pregnancy.