Hepatoprotective effect of stem of Musa sapientum Linn in rats intoxicated with carbon tetrachloride

Methods. The study was designed to evaluate the hepatoprotective activity of aqueous extract of central stem of Musa sapientum (AqMS) against carbon tetrachloride induced hepatotoxicity in rats. Animals were divided into six groups. Group I served as normal control. Group II, III, IV, V & VI were administered CCl₄ mixed with olive oil 1:1 (1.5 mL/kg) I.P., twice a week for 5 weeks. Group II was maintained as CCl₄ intoxicated control. Group III, IV and V received AqMS at a dose of 25, 50 and 100 mg/kg. Group VI received silymarin 100 mg/kg for 5 weeks orally once daily. Marker enzymes of hepatic functions estimated in serum were AST, ALT and ALP. Antioxidant parameters estimated were MDA and GSH in blood and liver and SOD in blood, after fifth week, animals were sacrificed, livers dissected out and evaluated for histomorphological changes. Results. There was significant rise in AST, ALT and ALP in CCl₄ intoxicated control group II. Treatment with AqMS prevented rise in levels of these enzymes. There was significant rise in MDA and fall in GSH in blood and liver in group II, indicating increased lipid peroxidation and oxidative stress upon CCl₄ administration. Treatment with AqMS prevented rise in MDA & increased GSH in treated group. SOD levels were decreased in group II while groups treated with AqMS showed significant rise (p < 0.05). Maximum hepatoprotective effect was observed with 50 mg/kg dose. Hepatoprotective effect observed with this dose was comparable to standard hepatoprotective drug silymarin. The results of pathological study also support the results of biochemical findings. Conclusion. the results of the present study indicate that stem of Musa sapientum possess hepatoprotective effect and probably it is due to it's antioxidant property.