Anti-Hepatotoxic and Antioxidant Activity of Limnanthemum indicum Against Carbon Tetrachloride Induced Liver Toxicity in Rats

Abstract:

Objective: Whole plant of Limnanthemum indicum (Menyanthaceae) is traditionally used for liver disorders. Limnanthemum indicum was investigated for its Anti-hepatotoxic and Antioxidant activity. Materials and Methods: Alcoholic extract of whole plant of Limnanthemum indicum (100, 200, 400 mg/kg, p.o.) was evaluated for its Anti-hepatotoxic and Antioxidant activity in Carbon tetrachloride (CCl₄)-induced liver toxicity in Rats. The Anti-hepatotoxic activity was assessed from biochemical and histopathological studies. Results:The administration of CCl₄ in rats induced hepatotoxicity which was evidenced by increased levels of Aspartate aminotransferase Alanine aminotransferase, Alkaline phosphatase and total bilirubin and oxidative stress. Pretreatment with Limnanthemum indicum extract significantly protected the liver in Carbon tetrachloride administered rats. Limnanthemum indicum extract significantly elevated antioxidant enzymes like superoxide dismutase, catalase, glutathione, Glutathione peroxidase, Gamma glutamyl Transferase and Glutathione- S-Transferase and decreased lipid peroxidation levels in liver. Histological studies showed that Limnanthemum indicum at 400 mg/kg reduced the hepatocellular damage in CCl₄ treated Rats. Conclusion: Thus the alcoholic extract of Limnanthemum indicum shows good antihepatoxic and antioxidant activity.

Key words: Carbon tetrachloride, Hepatoprotective, Limnanthemum indicum, Antioxidant, Alcohoic extract, Histopathology.