Abstract

EFFECT OF ADMINISTRATION OF FLAVONOID-RICH EXTRACT OF HIBISCUS SABDARIFFA ON MATERNAL FOOD AND WATER INTAKE ON PREGNANT RATS

Anthonia Onyinye Ngwoke, Rita Ifeoma-Ossy Ogu and Emmanuel Ifeanyi Obeagu*

ABSTRACT

This study investigated the effect of flavonoid-rich extract of Hibiscus Sabdariffa on fetal and placental weights, placental histology and plasma glucocorticoid level of pregnant Wistar rats. 20 female Wistar rats weighing 120-220g was used for this study. They were divided into control, low dose group (given 10mg/kg of flavonoid rich extract), medium dose group (given 20mg/kg of flavonoid rich extract), and high dose group (given 50mg/kg of flavonoid rich extract). Extract administration commenced on day 1 of pregnancy and ended on day 18. Maternal food intake and fluid intake were also measured. Results showed significant (p<0.05) decrease in the food intake and water intake. It is then concluded that maternal consumption of flavonoid-rich extract from HS plant has a reducing effect on the food intake of dams during pregnancy.

Keywords: Flavonoid, Hibiscus sabdariffa, maternal food. water, pregnant, rats.