Hepatoprotective Activity of Hydroalcoholic Extract of Murraya Koeinigii Leaves against CCl4-Induced Hepatotoxicity in Rats

The objective of the present study was to evaluate hepatoprotective activity of hydroalcoholic extract of Murraya koenigii leaves (HAMK) in rats. Hepatic damage was induced by administration of carbontetra chloride (1 ml/kg, b.w, p.o.) in combination with liquid paraffin (1:1) as a single dose on 7th day. The extent of liver damage was studied by estimating biochemical parameters. Administration of HAMK (100 mg & 200 mg/kg) for 6 days before carbontetrachloride administration showed a significant reduction (p < 0.01) of serum liver damage enzymes markers aspartate transaminase, alanine transaminase, total bilirubin and alkaline phosphatase (ALP). Histopathological changes of hepatic tissue were also evaluated in control and HAMK treated groups. Results also indicated that HAMK possessed potential antioxidant effect by increasing the levels of glutathione and also possessed free radical scavenging activities. The hepatoprotective activity of Murraya koenigii was comparable to standard drug silymarin (50 mg/kg).