Effect of Gongronema Latifolium (Utazi) Leaves on Intraocular Pressure

Abstract

Intraocular pressure (IOP) is an important physiological measure in ocular health and chronic increase is a major risk factor for glaucomatous optic nerve damage. There is a growing interest in the possible benefits of medicinal plants on the eye including Gongronema latifolium, a plant commonly used in traditional medicine. The effect of Gongronema latifolium leaf extract (GLLE) on intraocular pressure among apparently healthy volunteers was evaluated in this study. The study population consisted of 20 apparently healthy male and female participants. The participants were separated into two groups, 10 in the control group and 10 in the experimental group. The duration of the trial was 7 days. Baseline IOP was recorded, followed by recordings at 30, 60 and 90 minutes. The experimental group was administered Gongronema latifolium leaf extract while the control group was without the administration of the extract. IOP was measured in mmHg and variations in IOP were evaluated for the observation periods.In the control group, IOP showed very moderate changes over the seven-day observation period and no consistent progressive decline after measurements at 30, 60 and 90 minutes. The control group had a baseline mean IOP between 12.57 and 21.14 mmHg and showed relatively small fluctuations in subsequent examinations. In contrast, there was an overall decrease in IOP following administration of the extract in all subjects receiving GLLE. At 60 and 90 min the decline was progressively more noticeable. The individual mean baseline IOP readings in the experimental group ranged from 12.86 to 19.71 mmHg with decreases at 60 and 90 minutes. The observed trend supports a potential time-dependent IOP-lowering impact of GLLE. The results suggest that Gongronema latifolium leaf extract may possess IOP-lowering effect in apparently healthy persons and that the impact may become more pronounced at 60-90min after treatment. The lack of a similar gradual decline in the control group suggests a potential connection between the delivery of GLLE and the alterations noted in IOP. However, the generalisability of the findings is limited by the small sample size and short observation duration. Further research with bigger sample sizes, varied doses, longer follow-up periods and proper statistical testing are recommended to establish the efficacy, safety and mechanism of action of Gongronema latifolium on IOP.