Histopathological and Biochemical Investigation of the Effect of Shepherd's Purse (Capsella bursa-pastoris L.) on Ethanol-Induced Liver Damage

Abstract:

Background: The aim of the present study was to investigate the hepatoprotective effect of Shepherd's Purse (SP) herbal tea on ethanol (EtOH)-induced liver toxicity. Materials and Methods: Male Wistar rats (n = 32) were divided into 4 experimental groups: control, EtOH (30% EtOH), EtOH+SP (30% EtOH+1 mL/kg SP), and SP (1 mL/kg SP orally). EtOH and SP were administered by orogastric gavage once daily. At the end of the 60-day experimental period, tissue and blood samples were obtained from the rats following necropsy. Results: Histopathologically, degenerative-necrotic changes in the liver of the EtOH group rats were partially reduced in the SP treatment group. Biochemical examinations revealed that SP treatment decreased aspartic transaminase, alanine transaminase, and alkaline phosphatase levels in the SP-treated rats compared to the EtOH group rats. While SP treatment had a positive effect on the triglyceride and HDL levels, it had a negative effect on the LDL and cholesterol levels. Conclusion: Consequently, it was determined that SP tea provides partial protection against EtOH-induced liver toxicity.

Keywords: Shepherd's purse, Ethanol, Histopathology, Liver, Rat.