Exploration of Hepatoprotective Activity of Aqueous Extract of Tinospora Cordifolia - an Experimental Study

Background and ObjectivesTinospora cordifolia (Willd.) Miers ex Hook. f. & Thoms. (T. cordifolia) has been shown to be hepatoprotective by Ayurvedic physicians but has not been scientifically evaluated so far. So, the present study was undertaken to explore the hepatoprotective activity of T. cordifolia against experimentally induced hepatotoxicity in albino rats. Aim of The Study-To explore the hepatoprotective activity of T. cordifolia. Materials and MethodsAlbino Wistar rats weighing 150-200g of either sex were divided into six groups of six animals each. Group I was given normal saline (PO), group II carbon tetrachloride(CCl4) (IP), group III Liv.52 syrup for twenty days followed by carbon tetrachloride, group IV, V & VI received aqueous extract of T. cordifolia (1ml/100g twice daily) orally for 10, 20 & 30 days respectively followed by CCl4 administration. Blood was collected from anaesthetized animals & liver was dissected out. Alanine transaminase (ALT), Alkaline phosphatase (ALP) & Total bilirubin were estimated and liver was subjected to histopatological examination. Results-ALT, ALP & Total bilirubin levels were significantly increased in CCl4 treated group while T. cordifolia displayed significant reduction in rise in these parameters in group IV, V & VI. This hepatoprotection was also reflected in histologal changes. Interpretation and Conclusion-It can be concluded from the present study that T. cordifolia extract is a potent hepatoprotective agent. It is assumed that this hepatoprotective effect of T. cordifolia may be due to several reasons such as antioxidant and/or free radical scavenger property and ability to induce hepatic regeneration. Keyword: Antioxidants; Carbon tetrachloride; Free radical scavenger; Hepatotoxicity; Tinospora cordifolia.