Effect Of Dietary Incorporation Of Vernonia Amygdaljna Del And Vernonia Colorata On Some Pancreatic And Kidney Functions Of Albino Rats

ABSTRACT

Pancreatic and Kidney function is crucial, both in the process of lipid metabolism and nutrient absorption along the gut (Igile et at, 1995). The use of 'popular' diets, nutritional supplements and botanicals is on the increase. The use of herbs has more than tripled over the last ten years, (Eisenberg et at, 1998) and a whole new industry referred to as "nutraceuticals" has evolved. Since ancient times, plants have been used as sources of medicine. Ayrveda and other Indian literature (Grover, 2002), mentioned the use of plants in the treatment of various human ailments. The use of herbs was practiced by ancient people in Africa, Asia, Europe and America. (Wargovich et at., 2002). West Africa has several thousands of such plants (Gbilc, 1999). The consumption of a variety of local herbs and vegetables by man is believed to contribute significantly to the improvement of human health. Plants have long served as a natural source of therapeutic agent (Eisenberg ci al.,1998). Vernonia amygdalina Del and Vernonia colorata are widely used plants eaten as vegetables in many areas of East and Western Africa. They grow in a wide range of ecological zones in Africa and produce a large forage mass and arc drought tolerant (Bonsi, 1995).