THE PHYTOCHEMICAL ANALYSIS AND THE ETHANOLIC EFFECT OF BEETROOT(Beta vulgaris) EXTRACT ON WEIGHT CHANGES IN ALBINO RATS

Abstract

This study was designed to assess the phytochemical properties and the ethanolic effects of beetroot extract on weight changes in albino rats. The plant sample (Beta vulgaris) was purchased and taken to the Laboratory for analysis. It was washed, peeled, and dried for 20 minutes in the oven.  It was ground into fine particles using an electric blender. The sample was soaked in 30% ethanol for 24 hours, after which the extract was filtered and transferred into a conical flask ready for testing.. Fifteen (15) healthy male albino rats of average weight ranging from [4.5 - 6.6 grams] were obtained and divided into three groups, five(5) for each group.   The phytochemical results showed the presence of Saponin, flavonoids, alkaloids, and tannins, and the absence of steroids. From the results on the effects of beetroot extract on weight changes, the average body weight of the animals when administered the extract orally at doses of 20ml, 50ml, and 100ml, respectively, within three weeks, was significantly decreased compared to the control group. This observation suggests that the plant helps prevent weight gain in rats, which could be effective for controlling or treating obesity.