Changes in activities of tissues enzymes in rats administered <i>Ficus exasperata</i> leaf extract

This study evaluates the effects of methanolic extract of Ficus exasperata leaf on the activities of some enzymes in the serum, liver, kidney and heart of albino rats. Twenty four rats were sorted into four groups: Group A (control) received distilled water while rats in groups B, C and D were administered graded doses (100, 200 and 500 mg/kg bw) of methanolic leaf extract of Ficus exasperata respectively for 14 days. Activities of alanine aminotransferase (ALT), aspartate aminotransferase (AST), alkaline phosphatase (ALP) and acid phosphatase (ACP) were determined in the serum and tissues. Results obtained showed that administration of graded doses of Ficus exasperata leaf extract to rats caused significant increase (p<0.05) in growth rate compared to the control. Rats administered 500 mg/kg bw of the extract recorded significant decrease in tissues levels of the enzymes accompanied with their elevation in the serum indicating toxicity at this dose. There was also a  significant increase in relative organ weight in rats who received 500 mg/kg bw of the extract. Rats administered low and moderate doses (100 and 200 mg/kg bw) of the extract showed no significant alteration in enzyme activities in the serum and tissues as well as relative organ weight. The results suggest that intake of leaf extract of Ficus exasperata as a medicinal remedy is safe at lower dose and could help to promote growth. The extract might however be toxic to the organs when  taken at high doses. Keywords : Transaminases, phosphatases, Ficus exasperata, liver, kidney, heart