Hepatoprotective effect of amomum subulatum roxb seeds on carbon tetrachloride-induced liver damage in rats

Abstract

Aims of study: The aim of the present study is to evaluate the protective effect of Amomum subulatum seeds against experimentally induced liver injury. Materials and methods: The methanolic extract of seeds of Amomum subulatum (MEAS) was evaluated for the hepatoprotective effect against carbon tetrachloride (CCl4) induced hepatotoxicity in rats. Various biochemical parameters like alanine amino transferase (ALT), aspartate amino transferase (AST), alkaline phosphatase (ALP), total bilirubin (TB) and total protein (TP) levels were estimated in serum as well as the glutathione (GSH) and malondialdehyde (MDA) levels in the liver were determined. Histopathological changes in the liver of different groups were also studied. Results:The pre-treatment of MEAS at dose levels of 100 and 300 mg/kg/d, p.o. for 7 d had controlled the raise of AST, ALT, ALP, TB and MDA levels and the effects were comparable with standard drug (silymarin 200 mg/kg/d, p.o. for 7 d). The GSH and TP levels were significantly increased in the animals received pretreatment of the extract. The animals received pre-treatment of the extract shown decreased necrotic zones and hepatocellular degeneration when compared to the liver exposed to CCl4 intoxication alone. Thus the histopathological studies also supported the protective effect of the extract. Conclusion: This study demonstrates the hepatoprotective effect of Amomum subulatum seeds and thus scientifically supports the usage of this plant in various Ayurvedic preparations and traditional medicine for treatment of liver disorders.