Evaluation of the Effect of Luteolin on the Hepatic and Hematopoietic Systems in Albino Rats

Background: Luteolin is a flavonoid with some useful pharmacological properties yet its safety profile has not been fully delineated .Objectives of the study were to investigate the effects of luteolin on blood and liver functions, and make necessary recommendations regarding therapeutic use of luteolin. Methods: A total of 33 adult albino rats (average weight) were used in this study. Oral LD50 of luteolin was carried out with 13 rats using modified Lorke’s method. The other 20 rats were divided into 4 groups comprising of 5 rats per group (n=5 per group) for biochemical, haematological and histopathological studies which were carried out for 28 days. Group I was used as control and received orally 10 ml/kg of distilled water. Groups II,III and IV also orally received 50 mg/kg,100 mg/kg and 200 mg/kg of luteolin respectively. Blood samples were collected from each rat in the different groups before treatment, on 14th and 28th days respectively and after repeated daily dosing. The liver of the rats were extracted and examined for histological changes. Results: Results show that all doses of luteolin had significant (p<0.05) elevation of some blood indices (RBCs, PCV, Hb) while WBCs was not elevated. There was significant (p<0.05) increase in liver enzymes such as ALT, AST and ALP. Conclusion: The study indicates that high doses ( ≥ 200 mg/kg) and prolonged use of luteolin may increase hepatic enzyme activity while low doses ( ≤ 50 mg/kg) and are hepatoprotective. No significant liver damage was observed based on histopathological results.