Hepatoprotective Activity of Leaves of Feronia elephantum Correa (Rutaceae) Against Carbontetrachloride-Induced Liver Damage in Rats

Abstract

Objective: The objective of the present investigation was to study hepatoprotective activity of aqueous extract of leaves of Feronia elephantum Correa., Fam. Rutaceae using carbon tetrachloride-induced liver damage model in rats. Methods: Liver damage in rats was produced by carbon tetrachloride (1.25 mg/kg, i.p.) in olive oil. Aqueous extract of leaves of the plant was administered to rats daily for seven or fifteen days. The physical, functional and biochemical parameters were investigated. Histopathological changes in liver were studied. Concurrently Liv 52^® was used as standard hepatoprotective agent. Results: The result indicated that physical, functional and biochemical changes produced by carbon tetrachloride were restored to normal by aqueous extract of the leaves of Feronia elephantum Liv 52^®. The hepatoprotective action of aqueous extract of leaves and Liv 52^® was confirmed by histopathological examination. Conclusion: The aqueous extract of leaves of Feronia elephantum showed hepatoprotective effect in carbon tetrachloride induced liver damage model in rats.