Effect of Fenugreek (Trigonella foenum-graecum L.) Seeds and its Aqueous Extract on Gastric-Acidity and Blood pH of Rats

Khaled Meghawry El-Zahar, Ahmed Abdel-Zaher Mohamed Mostafa, Ebtihal H.M. Musa and Hassan Mirghani Mousa

Background and Objective: Fenugreek seeds are supposed to be of practical importance as a source of phytochemicals that are of relevance to the pharmaceutical industry. The objective of the present investigation was to explore the utility of Fenugreek Seeds Powder (FSP) and its aqueous extract FSPE as a natural anti-acidity, anti-osteoporosis instrument in rats. Materials and Methods: Forty male rats weighing 190±10 g were randomly divided into five groups, including the negative control group and groups that were fed on 5 and 10% of FSP or with 2 mL of its aqueous extract. Rats were sacrificed and serum was collected for biochemical analysis. Results: Results revealed a significant increase in final weight and body weight gain in the fourth group compared with the other groups. The positive control group recorded the lowest level of bicarbonate and there was a significant increase in the bicarbonate levels in rats that received aqueous extract compared to the negative control. It was also noted that stomach acidity and blood pH were affected positively by FSP and FSPE treatment and there was a significant difference between the positive group and the other groups. Rats fed on a diet supplemented with 10% fenugreek seeds powder presented the highest mean value of serum calcium. The addition of FSP and FSPE to the rat’s diet reduced blood malondialdehyde and increased total antioxidant capacity and maintained the gastric layers and bones histology intact. Conclusion: Results confirm a protective role of Trigonella against gastric ulcer and blood pH, which can be attributed to the probable effect of dietary fibre and antioxidant compounds.

View Fulltext Back