Hepatoprotective effect of methanol extract of Senna occidentalis seeds in carbon tetrachloride induced hepatotoxic rats

Abstract

Effect of methanol seed extract of Senna occidentalis in carbon tetrachloride (CCl4) induced hepatic damage in Wistar albino rats was investigated. Biochemical parameters such as serum AST (Aspartate Aminotransferase), ALT (Alanine Amino Transferase), ALP (Alkaline Phosphatase) and Total proteins were determined. The level of Malondialdehyde (MDA) and the liver antioxidant enzymes such as superoxide dismutase (SOD), and Catalase were also determined. Phytochemical screening and subsequent quantification reveal the presence of bioactive compounds such as Flavonoids (0.27±0.01mg/g), Phenols (0.79±0.021 mg/g), Tannins (0.87±0.03mg/g) and Alkaloids (62.57±2.35mg/g). The level of AST, ALT, and ALP significantly increased in CCL4 induced groups. However, the administration of methanol extract of S. occidentalis at 100mg/kg and 200mg/kgbw decreased (p<0.05) the activity of ALT, AST and ALP in the treated groups. The activity of SOD and CAT in the CCl4 induced group was decreased. Also, increase in the level of MDA in CCl4treated group was observed when compared with the normal group and this was decreased (p<0.05) on administration with methanol seed extract of Senna occidentalis at 100mg/kg and 200mg/kg (B/W). It can be concluded that methanol seeds extract of Senna occidentalis possess important phytoconstituents and hepatoprotective effect. Thus, the extract can be used as a potent therapeutic agent for the management of liver damage.