The effect of oral gavage (force-feeding) administration of fenugreek seeds (Trigonella foenum-graecum L.) on biochemical and neurobehavioural parameters in male Wistar rats

Abstract

This study aims to evaluate the effect of fenugreek on biochemical parameters, body weight, and the behavior of male Wistar rats. The purpose of administering the aqueous extract of fenugreek seeds ( Trigonella foenum-graecum L) for 30 successive days by oral gavage (force-feeding) at a dose of 250g / l of water is intended to assess, on the one hand, the neurobehavioural effects and 'on the other hand its effect on some biochemical parameters (glycemia and lipid balance) as well as weight. The behavioral tests performed are the Light/Dark Box tests (LDB) and the Elevated Plus Maze test (EPM). This work indicated that the consumption of the aqueous extract of the seeds of fenugreek is beneficial to stimulate appetite and gain weight, thus decreasing the level of total cholesterol, triglycerides, LDL-C, and a significant increase in HDL-C, also a reduction in blood sugar and a decrease in anxiety.