Hepatoprotective Effect of Oroxylum Indicum Bark Extracts against Chemically-Induced Hepatic Damage In Rats

Abstract

Liver diseases remain a significant global health challenge, with limited effective therapeutic options available in modern medicine. The present study aimed to evaluate the hepatoprotective potential of ethanolic bark extracts of Oroxylum indicum against carbon tetrachloride (CCl₄)-induced hepatic damage in Wistar albino rats. The plant extract was prepared using a percolation method and subjected to phytochemical screening, which revealed the presence of bioactive constituents such as alkaloids, steroids, and saponins. Experimental animals were divided into six groups, including normal control, toxic control, standard (silymarin-treated), and three test groups receiving different doses (100, 200, and 400 mg/kg) of Oroxylum indicum extract. Hepatotoxicity was induced using CCl₄, and the protective effects of the extract were assessed through biochemical parameters including serum AST, ALT, ALP, GGT, and bilirubin levels, along with histopathological examination of liver tissues.Results demonstrated that CCl₄ administration significantly elevated liver enzyme levels and caused severe hepatic damage. Treatment with Oroxylum indicum extract resulted in a dose-dependent reduction in serum biomarkers and improvement in liver histoarchitecture. Notably, the highest dose (400 mg/kg) exhibited hepatoprotective effects comparable to the standard drug silymarin. The findings suggest that Oroxylum indicum bark extract possesses significant hepatoprotective activity, likely attributed to its phytochemical constituents and antioxidant properties. This study supports the traditional use of the plant and highlights its potential as a natural therapeutic agent for the management of liver disorders.