Evaluation of hepatoprotective activity of methanol stem bark extract of Haematostaphis barteri Hook. F. against paracetamol and carbon tetrachloride-induced liver injury in rats

Abstract

Background: The ethnomedical uses of Haematostaphis barteri commonly known as blood plum has been documented in literature. The efficacy of its stem bark extract in management of liver diseases is well acclaimed among communities of Northern Nigeria. Objective: To evaluate the hepatoprotective activity of methanol stem bark extract of Haematostaphis barteri against paracetamol and carbon tetrachloride (CCl4)-induced hepatotoxicity in Wistar rats. Methodology: Phytochemical and acute toxicity studies were carried out. Liver damage was induced in different groups of Wistar rats using paracetamol (3 g/kg) and 1 ml/kg of CCl4 (1:1 in olive oil). The effect of Haematostaphis barteri extract was tested for hepatoprotective activity by evaluating serum biochemical parameters and liver histology. The extract was also tested for antioxidant activity using in-vitro DPPH free radical scavenging method. Results: Phytochemicals present include tannins, sterols, alkaloids, saponins, triterpenes, flavonoids and anthraquinones. Oral median lethal dose was estimated to be >5000 mg/kg. Pre-treatment with the extract (250, 500 and 1000 mg/kg) significantly (p<0.05) reduced alanine aminotransferase and alkaline phosphatase levels compared to paracetamol and CCl4 toxic groups respectively. These results were supported by the protection against hepatocellular necrosis in the extract treated groups as well as the DPPH radical scavenging activity. Conclusion: The results obtained suggest the stem bark extract of Haematostaphis barteri possesses hepatoprotective activity. Keywords: Haematostaphis barteri, Hepatoprotective, Paracetamol, Carbon tetrachlorid