The protective role of ethanolic extract of ginseng (Panax ginseng) against adverse physiological and histological alterations in the liver of female rabbits exposed to chlorine

Abstract

Background: Ginseng (Panax ginseng) has garnered considerable attention due to its medicinal properties. This study aimed to assess the protective effects of ginseng ethanolic extract against chlorine-induced toxicity in female rabbits.                                                        Methods: Thirty-two female rabbits were randomly divided into four groups: a negative control group receiving chlorine-free water, a positive control group receiving tap water with chlorine (0.05 ppm/L), a group exposed to chlorine (5 ppm/L) in water, and a group exposed to chlorine (5 ppm/L) along with ethanolic ginseng extract (200 mg/kg body weight). Treatment lasted for four weeks.Results: revealed that oral exposure to chlorine led to oxidative stress, evidenced by elevated levels of malondialdehyde (MDA) and liver enzymes (AST & ALT), as well as suppressed blood parameters (PCV, HB, and RBC count), and histological liver alterations compared to the normal control group. Conversely, administration of ginseng extracts alongside chlorine for four weeks reduced MDA levels and liver enzyme activity while enhancing blood parameters, accompanied by decreased inflammatory histological changes.Conclusion: These results indicate that ginseng extract has strong antioxidant activity, reducing the toxicity and related pathophysiological effects of chlorine. Keywords: Ginseng; Chlorine; MDA; Liver enzymes; Blood parametersEditorial Expression of Concern:18 May 2025: Following publication of this paper, the internal audit (consequent to concerns on quality raised by Web of Science) notified Advancements in Life Sciences about problems in use of English language. By this Editorial Expression of Concern, we alert the scientific community as we address the errors.Editorial Note:31 May 2025: You are viewing the latest version of this article having minor corrections related to the use of English language and in references section. Expression of concern is hereby revoked