Hepatoprotective and antioxidant activity of Cassytha filiformis against CCl4 induced hepatic damage in rats.

Abstract Objective The present study is aimed to evaluate hepatoprotective and antioxidant activity of Cassytha filiformis methanolic on the CCl 4 induced hepatotoxicity. Material and method Hepatotoxicity was induced by CCl 4 (1 ml/kg bw 1:1 CCl 4 and olive oil). Methanolic extract of CF at different doses (250 and 500 mg/kg b.w) were administered to male Wistar rats weighing between 125 and 150 g. Then activity of CF against CCl 4 was compared with Silymarin (50 mg/kg bw). Biochemical parameters like serum SGPT, SGOT, ALP and total bilirubin were estimated to assess the liver function. Biochemical observations were also supplemented with histopathological examination of liver section. Results Phytochemical investigation showed that methanolic extract contains poly phenolic compounds, tannins, flavonoids, alkaloids and saponins. Acute toxicity study shows that methanolic extract was safe up to 5000 mg/kg body weight. Compared to CCl 4 toxicant group wet liver weight, wet liver volume was markedly reduced in methanolic extract treated group. The toxicant induced a rise in the plasma enzyme levels of ALT, SGOT, SGPT and total bilirubin level. This increased level was significantly lowered by the extract at 500 mg/kg bw than 250 mg/kg bw. The histopathological changes i.e. fatty changes, necrosis etc were partly or fully prevented in animals treated with the extracts. Conclusion The finding suggests there was significant reduction in elevated levels of serum enzyme (SGOT, SGPT, ALP and total bilirubin level). Wet liver weight and wet liver volume was also decreased in animals pretreated with methanolic extract of CF. From the above it is found that CF extract exhibit hepatoprotective activity. This justifies the inclusion of this plant in the management of liver disorders.