Effects of Aqueous Stem Bark Extract of Stereospermum kunthianum on Carbon Tetrachloride - Induced Hepatotoxicity in Rats

Aim: This study is aimed at evaluating the effects of the aqueous stem bark extract of Stereospermum kunthianum on CCl4-induced hepatotoxicity in rats.

Methodology: Analysis of qualitative phytochemical components and antioxidant activity were carried out. Experimental rats were randomly divided into six groups of five rats each. Group 1: served as the normal control group. Group 2: was administered with CCl4 only at a dose of 3 ml/kg b.wt by single intraperitoneal administration. Group 3: served as the standard control group. Group 4: was administered with 200 mg/kg b.wt of the aqueous stem bark extract + CCl4. Group 5: was administered with 400 mg/kg b.wt of the aqueous stem bark extract + CCl4. Group 6: was administered with 600 mg/kg b.wt of the aqueous stem bark extract+ CCl4.

Results: The phytochemical analysis showed the presence of flavonoid, phenols, saponins, and terpenoid while tannins and alkaloids were absent. The antioxidant activity showed that the extract significantly (P<0.05) inhibits Ferric Reducing Antioxidant Power (FRAP) and Thiobarbituric Acid Reactive Substances (TBARS), giving high activity as the concentration of the extract increases. The elevated levels of ALT and AST coupled with Conjugated bilirubin, Total bilirubin, and total protein caused by CCl4 administration were all reduced significantly (P<0.05) by the extract in dose dependent manner.

Conclusion: These findings demonstrated that stem bark extract of Stereospernmum kunthianum could be an alternative medication for liver injury.