Hepatoprotective Effect of Ethanolic Extract of Fresh Leaves of Cassia alata on Carbon Tetrachloride-induced Toxicity

J. C. Mordi and U. E. Uzuegbu

Department of Medical Biochemistry, Faculty of Basic Medical Sciences, Delta State University, Abraka, Nigeria.

Corresponding Author E-mail: drjoechuks@gmail.com

DOI : http://dx.doi.org/10.13005/bbra/1098

ABSTRACT: The antioxidant action of 70% ethanolic extract of fresh leaves of Cassia alata on Aspartate aminotransferase (AST) and Alanine aminotransferase (ALT) activities were examined using a model carbon tetrachloride (CCL4) induced oxidative damage in the liver. The administration of the extract (2.5ml and 5ml/kg body weight) significantly (p<0.05) decreased levels of CCL4 –induced formation of AST and ALP by the liver, suggesting the role of the extract in protection against pro-oxidant liver damage. Pretreatment with the extract prior to the intra-peritoneal administration of 0.5ml/kg body weight of CCL4 was reduced by 44% and 75% for AST at a dose of 2.5ml/kg body weight and 116% and 146% for ALP at 5ml/kg body weight. These findings are suggestive of the possible chemopreventive role of Cassia alata on liver damage.

KEYWORDS: Cassia alata; Hepatoprotective; Ethanol; Carbon tetrachloride; AST; ALT

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