Effect of Withania somnifera powder against lead- induced toxicity in albino rats

Abstract

This work has been conducted to evaluate the effect of Withania somnifera (WS) powder on Lead (Pb) Induced toxicity in Wistar albino rats. Twenty four albino rats were divided into group I as control; Lead Acetate (PbAc) 1000mg/kg was orally given to group II, and group III was orally treated with Withania somnifera powder (500mg/kg) along with lead acetate (1000 mg/ kg).Oral administration of PbAc for 28 days resulted in a significant decrease in TEC, TLC and Hb%, significant increase of AST, ALT, ALP, BUN and serum creatinine and lead accumulation in tissues. There was significant decrease in total serum protein and serum albumin level after oral administration of PbAc to the rats. Treatment with WS powder @ 500 mg/kg significantly increased the reduced level of TEC, TLC and Hb% and restored altered haematological levels as compared to PbAc treated group. It also significantly decreased the elevated level of AST, ALT, ALP, BUN and serum creatinine. It simultaneously increased the level of total serum protein and total albumin. There was no significant differences in lead concentration in tissues when compared with group II. The study concludes that supplementation of powder of Withania somnifera daily P.O for 28 days has provided mild protection against lead induced toxicity.