Chronic effects of hydro-alcoholic artemisia absinthium extract on the liver enzymes and tissue changes of adult mal rat

Abstract

Artemisia absinthium has many pharmacological effects, but toxic effects of it, were seen on nervous system and liver. Therefore, the aim of this study was to evaluate the chronic effects of different doses of Artemisia absinthium extract on the enzymes and histopathological changes of the liver tissue of adult normal male rat. Method and materials: In this experimental study, forty eight male Wistar rats were randomly divided into 6 groups of 8 as follows: Control, sham (recipient of distilled water) and 4 experimental groups that received Artemisia absinthium hydro- alcoholic extract at doses of 125, 250, 500 and 1000 mg/kg intraperitoneally.

The data were analyzed using one-way ANOVA and Duncan post hoc tests. P≤0.05 was considered statistically significant. Results: After 8 weeks, doses of 125, 250 and 500 mg/kg could significantly reduce amount of ALT, AST and ALP. Dose of 1000 mg/kg increased ALT, AST and ALP. From the standpoint of histopathological study, doses of 125, 250 and 500 Artemisia absinthium had no significant side effect on liver tissue, but 1000 mg/kg caused destruction of liver cell membranes, enlargement of sinusoidal space, sporadic leukocyte infiltration, Kupffer cells hypertrophy, and vascular congestion.

Conclusion: Maximum dose of Artemisia absinthium extract (1000 mg/kg) increased liver enzymes and destroy liver tissues of normal male rats.

Keywords: Artemisia Absinthium, Enzymes, Histopathology, Liver, Rat