The acute effects of hydro-alcoholic khat (Catha edulis Forsk) extract on mesenteric blood flow velocity in Guinea pigs.

Zewdu Minwuyelet Gebremariam; Tesfaye Tolossa Dugul; Diresbachew Haile Wendimu; Vempati Poornodai; Vulli Venkata Rao; Suberu Safiu Adewale

Volume : VII, Issue : XI, November - 2017

The acute effects of hydro-alcoholic khat (Catha edulis Forsk) extract on mesenteric blood flow velocity in Guinea pigs.

Zewdu Minwuyelet Gebremariam, Tesfaye Tolossa Dugul, Diresbachew Haile Wendimu, Vempati Poornodai, Vulli Venkata Rao, Suberu Safiu Adewale

Abstract :

This in vivo random experimental animal study was conducted to evaluate the acute effects of crude Catha edulis extract on mesenteric blood flow velocity in guinea pigs. A total number of 10 guinea pigs were used. Superior mesenteric blood flow velocity was measured by Ultrasound Doppler flow meter. This was tested by placing its flow meter probe (4 Hz) between 45 and 60 degrees on superior mesenteric blood vessels. Blood flow velocity was recorded digitally for half an hour following normal saline administration as baseline; while 0.2ml Catha edulis extract solution infusion as treatment and recorded for 1hour. Results showed significant increased systolic and diastolic blood flow velocities in response to Catha edulis extract infusion as compared to the base line. The significant increased systolic and diastolic blood flow velocities and the corresponding increase in resistance in superior mesenteric blood vessels in guinea pigs enable us to conclude that khat chewing could decrease the volume of blood flow to the gastrointestinal system.