EJMS

Abstract

Introduction: Chromium is a naturally – occurring heavy metal found in several forms (hexavalent Cr VI and trivalent Cr III). Copper, Manganese, Selenium and Chromium are all trace elements which are important in human diet. Any of these elements may have pernicious effects if taken in quantity or if the usual mechanisms of elimination are impaired Over exposure to chromium can occur in welders and other workers in the metallurgical industry, persons taking chromium–containing dietary supplements, patients who have received metallic surgical implants and individuals who ingest chromium salts in drinking water. The interest in herbal therapies and its expansive involvement in the health sector are not surprising. The herb Cymbopogon (Lemongrass), known as halfa-baris is highly reputed in folkloric medicine as an effective diuretic, renal or abdominal antispasmodic agent and for relieving bronchial asthma. Aim of the work: assessment of the possible protective effects of Lemongrass decoction on Chromium picolinate induced pulmonary alveolar changes of male albino rats. Material & Methods: the animals were divided into 3 groups. Group I (control group) which were further subdivided into 2 equal subgroups. Group II (experimental group) Chromium picolinate (Cr (pic) 3) was dissolved in water and administered at a concentration of 5 mg/kg/day in drinking water ad libitum for one month. Group III (protected group) received Chromium picolinate by the same route and duration concomitant with Lemongrass decoction 1%. Results: administration of Chromium picolinate induced alteration in the pulmonary alveoli as evident by proliferation and abnormal vacuolation of type II pneumocyte, numerous foamy macrophages, intra-alveolar cellular debris and exfoliated cells, thickening of inter-alveolar septa due to mononuclear cellular infiltration, congestion of the blood vessels associated with increased collagen deposition. Concomitant administration of lemongrass ameliorates most of these changes.