The Effect of Roselle (Hibiscus sabdariffa) Extract on Malondialdehyde Level in Rat Liver

Abstract

This study aimed to determine the efficacy of roselle flower extract in reducing the Malondialdehyde (MDA) level in rats after induction of 20% ethanol. This experimental study used a post-test design on 24 male white rats, Wistar strain which were grouped into six type of treatment. The K1 group was given daily aquadest only, K2 was given 20% ethanol. K3 was given 20% ethanol and vitamin C, K4 was given 20% ethanol and 250 mg/kgBW/day roselle flower extracts, K5 was given 20% ethanol and 500 mg/kgBW/day roselle flower extract, K6 was given 20% ethanol and 750 mg/kgBW/day roselle flower extract. Each group received treatment for 30 days. At the time of termination, the rat’s liver was collected and the liver’s MDA level was examined. One Way Anova test and the Post Hoc Tukey test were used for data analysis. There was a decrease in MDA levels (3.1578±0.37 ng/ml) in K4 compared to K2 as well as to K5 and K6 with higher extract concentrations. Thus, despite its benefit as antioxidant, excess of flavonoid compounds undergoing oxidation will produce a metabolite compound that can damage the endogenous antioxidant. Hence, 250 mg/kgBW/day roselle flower extract given daily can reduce MDA levels in mice induced with 20% alcohol.