Hepatoprotective activity of aqueous Curcuma longa rhizome extract against carbon tetrachloride-induced liver toxicity in adult Wistar rats

Abstract

The aim of the study was to assess the protective potentials of aqueous extract of Curcuma longa rhizome on carbon tetrachloride-induced liver toxicity in adult Wistar rats. 30 male adult Wistar rats weighing between 180 and 250 g were used in the study and were randomly assigned into 6 groups containing 5 rats each. The study lasted for eight weeks; Group 1 served as control and received no administration. Group 2 received 1 ml/kg body weight of carbon tetrachloride; group 3 received 200 mg/kg body weight of Curcuma longa extract; group 4 received 400 mg/kg body weight of Curcuma longa extract; group 5 received 1 ml/kg body weight of carbon tetrachloride and 200 mg/kg body weight of Curcuma longa; group 6 received 1 ml/kg body weight of carbon tetrachloride and 400 mg/kg body weight of Curcuma longa. Carbon tetrachloride group showed statistical significant increase in liver enzyme activities compared to with control. All treated groups showed statistical significant low liver enzyme activities compared with Carbon tetrachloride. Carbon tetrachloride group showed statistical significant alteration in the antioxidant activities of the liver compared with control group. In all the treated groups, antioxidant activities were normal compared with Carbon tetrachloride. H&E stain revealed carbon tetrachloride caused grade 2 steatosis. Groups 1, 3, 4, and 5 showed grade 0 steatosis. Groups 6 and 7 showed grade 1 steatosis. Masson’s trichrome stain revealed carbon tetrachloride caused grade 3 fibrosis. Groups 1, 3, 4, and 5 showed Grade 0 fibrosis. Groups 6 and 7 showed grade 2 fibrosis. Conclusively, aqueous extract of Curcuma longa rhizome showed protective potentials against carbon tetrachloride – induced liver toxicity in adult Wistar rats.