Effects of Piper guineense (African Black Pepper) Seeds on Lipid Profile, Renal Function Parameters, and Antioxidant Status of Cavia porcellus

Piper guineense (African black pepper) is a widely consumed spice in some parts of Central and Western Africa, especially Nigeria, due to its nutritional and medicinal properties. This study investigated biochemical effects of extract of P. guineense seeds on lipid profile, renal function parameters, and antioxidant status of Cavia porcellus.

Forty guinea pigs (weighing 200–300g) were equally divided into a control group and three experimental groups. Animals in the control group received 1 mL of distilled water daily for 28 days, while animals in the experimental groups 1, 2, and 3 received 0.5 mL of distilled water along with 10, 20, and 20 mg/100 g body weight powered seeds daily for 28 days.

Phytochemical studies revealed the presence of flavonoids, alkaloids, tannins, saponins, and calcium. The median lethal oral dose of the aqueous extract of P. guineense seeds was greater than 5,000 mg/kg, indicating a high degree of safety. The extract at dose of 30 mg/100 g body weight had the most beneficial effects on lipid profile, renal function parameters, and antioxidant status of guinea pigs when compared with other groups.

Given the beneficial effects of P. guineense on lipid profile and renal function parameters, the plant can be incorporated in daily diets to ensure receiving adequate amount of essential vitamins, phytochemicals, and other nutrients present in the plant.