Effect of Ethanol Leaf Extract of Moringa oleifera on Oxidative Stress andAtherogenic Indices of Otapiapia-Exposed Albino Rats

Objective: Otapiapia is a locally produced, easily accessible, non-regulated household pesticide, which could easily contaminate human food. The ameliorative effect of ethanol leaf extract of Moringa oliefera on otapiapiainduced changes in oxidative stress, lipid profile and atherogenic indices of albino rats was investigated using standard methods. Methodology: Twenty-four apparently healthy Wister male albino rats (150-180 g) were divided into 4 groups (IIV) of 6 animals each. Group I served as the control, while group II animals were given otapiapia contaminated feed and distilled water. Group III were fed uncontaminated diet and M. oleifera extract drink. Group IV animals were also given the contaminated diet and M. oliefera extract. The feed and drinks were provided ad libitum for a period of 14 days. Result: The results show that intake of otapiapia significantly (p<0.05) reduced serum superoxide dismutase and catalase activities and HDL-c concentration but increased significantly (p<0.05) the concentrations of malondialdehyde, total cholesterol, triacylglycerol, LDL-c and VLDL-c. The derangements were significantly more pronounced in the atherogenic predictor indices than with lipid profile values. The observed effects of otapiapia were significantly (p<0.05) countered by administration of M. oliefera leaf extract. Conclusion: The results indicate that M. oleifera is a potent anti-poison with ameliorative effect against otapiapia-induced changes in biomarkers of oxidative and atherogenic damages in animals.