Epaltes Divaricata in Paracetamol Poisoning: a Biochemical and Histopathological Investigation

Abstract

Introduction and Objective: In the practice of traditional ayurvedic medicine in Sri Lanka, a number of herbs have been recognized for their potential benefits in the treatment of liver disorders. This study was conducted to investigate the protective effect of Epaltes divaricata plant extract in paracetamol induced hepatotoxicity in mice. Methods: ICR mice (n=20) were treated with acetaminophen at a single dose of 300 mg/kg (after a 16h fast) to induce hepatotoxicity. Drug control group and pre and post-treated groups were administered 0.9 g/kg of Asparagus falcatus orally. Serum alanine aminotransferase (ALT), aspartate aminotransferase (AST), alkaline phosphatise (ALP) and liver reduced glutathione (GSH) levels were determined. Liver damage was also assessed histopathologically. The effect of the plant extract was compared with N-acetyl cysteine.

Results:Acetaminophen produced liver damage, as manifested by a significant rise (P<0.001, one-way ANOVA) in serum ALT, AST, and ALP, and a reduction (P<0.001) in GSH as compared to respective controls. All enzyme activities and liver GSH were significantly improved in Epaltes treated mice, with post-treatment providing better results than pre-treatment. Histopathological changes were compatible with the observed biochemical abnormalities.

Discussion: This study shows the ability of the aqueous extract of Epaltes divaricata to preserve liver functions in mice treated with high dose of paracetamol.

Galle Medical Journal 2015 20(1): 1-7