Abstract
Hepatoprotective effects of Rheum emodi roots and their aqueous and methanolic extracts were studied against liver damage induced by paracetamol in albino rats. In addition, the effects of herbal preparation, Akseer-e- Jigar and a control drug, silymarin were also studied. Pretreatment and post-treatment hepatoprotective effects of all these drugs were determined. The prevention of liver damage and curative effects of the drugs were judged by changes in serum ALT, AST, ALP, albumin and bilirubin (total and direct) levels. Powdered Rheum emodi roots (1 and 1.5 g/kg) and their aqueous extract did not significantly affect serum enzymes, albumin and bilirubin levels. However, treatment with powder (2 g/kg), methanolic extract (0.6 g/kg), Akseer-e-Jigar (1 g/kg) and silymarin (50 mg/kg) in both pre and post-treatment studies significantly prevented the paracetamol-induced rise of serum enzymes and bilirubin levels whereas serum albumin was raised after treatment with these drugs. It is conceivable, therefore, that Rheum emodi roots and Akseer-e-Jigar possess hepatoprotective principles that can prevent and/or treat liver damage due to paracetamol. The study has supported empirical use of the plant and its compound preparation used in traditional medicine.
Recommended Citation
Akhtar, M. S.; Amin, M.; Ahmad, Maqsood; and Alamgeer, Alamgeer
(2009)
"Hepatoprotective Effect of Rheum emodi Roots (Revand chini) and Akseer-e-Jigar Against Paracetamol-induced Hepatotoxicity in Rats,"
Ethnobotanical Leaflets: Vol. 2009:
Iss.
2, Article 3.
Available at:
https://opensiuc.lib.siu.edu/ebl/vol2009/iss2/3