Effects of Crassocephalum bauchiense Ethanolic Extract on Reproductive Parameters in Rabbit Does Exposed to Potassium Dichromate

Abstract

The present study was undertaken to evaluate the effects of Hutch leaves Ethanolic Extract (EE) on reproductive parameters, toxicity biochemical markers and oxidative stress indicators in does exposed to Potassium Dichromate (PD). Thirty-six nulliparous sexually mature does of eight months; weighing 2.80-3.00 kg were divided into six groups of six animals, comparable in terms of Body Weight (BW). After mating, group T0 received distilled water, while groups T0-, VC100, EE100, EE200 and EE400 were treated with 40 mg/BW of PD. Also, group VC100 received 100 mg/BW of vitamin C, while groups EE100, EE200 and EE400 received respectively 100, 200 and 400 mg/BW of EE of hutch leaves. Results showed that urea, creatinine, total cholesterol, alanine aminotransferase and aspartate aminotransferase were significantly higher; with lower total protein levels in T0- concerning the other groups. The follicle-stimulating hormone was significantly lower in T0- as compared to the other groups. Catalase and total peroxidase activities decreased significantly while malondialdehyde and superoxide dismutase increased significantly in T0- than in other groups. From these results, EE of Hutch leaves has protected does against the toxic effects of PD. It can therefore be used to improve female reproduction.