Efficacy of Andrgraphis paniculata (Family: Acanthaceae) methanol extract against paracetamol induced hepathotoxicity in mice

The 50% methanol extract of Andrgraphis paniculata (Syn. Justicia paniculata Burm. F.; Family: Acanthaceae) whole plant except root was evaluated for hepatoprotective activity against over dose of paracetamol (500 mg/kg body wt.) induced hepatotoxicity in albino mice. The mean haemoglobin level and TEC level decreased significantly (P<0.01) in the paracetamol treated group but increased in untreated group from 5th day onwards. Neutrophil, Eosinophil, basophil and monocyte values increased in paracetamol treated group compared to untreated group. The blood glucose level decreased significantly (P<0.01) and the minimum level was found on 11th day in the treated group. The BUN increased significantly (P<0.01) in this group. The serum bilirubin increased significantly (P<0.01) following paracetamol administration. On 15th day, hepatic necrosis with biliary hyperplasia was prominent in the paracetamol treated group. The 50% methanol extract of Andrgraphis paniculata seems to have beneficial effect on hepatic toxicity.