Aqueous Extract of Banana (Musa Spp) Blossom and Silymarin Ameliorates Spleen Toxicity Induced by Lead Acetate in Albino Wistar Rats

This study evaluated the protective effects of aqueous extract of banana blossom (Musa spp.) and silymarin against lead acetate-induced spleen toxicity in albino Wistar rats. Thirty male rats were divided into six groups: control, lead acetate only, lead acetate plus banana blossom at 200 mg/kg or 400 mg/kg, lead acetate plus silymarin, and banana blossom only. Treatments were administered for 21 days following 14 days of lead exposure. Hematological parameters, body and organ weights, and spleen histology were assessed. Lead acetate caused weight loss, reduced packed cell volume, decreased hemoglobin, and altered spleen architecture, indicating toxicity. Banana blossom at 400 mg/kg showed marked improvement in body weight and preservation of normal splenic histology, while silymarin also produced protective effects. The findings suggest that banana blossom possesses potential antioxidant and ameliorative properties against lead-induced splenic damage. Further studies are recommended to clarify the mechanism of action and optimize dosage for therapeutic use.