Effect of rhinocanthus and selenium on various cells and cellular components in blood samples and histological changes in rat liver.

Rhinacanthus nasutus (RN) and selenium have been used for treatment of various illnesses, but the mechanisms of action remain largely unknown. The results of the present study showed that the methanolic extract was found to contain highest amount of non-enzymic antioxidants followed by the aqueous extract. It is evident that Rhinacanthus nasutus leaf extracts offered efficient antioxidant defense in the rat liver an in vitro model which simulates in vivo condition, when exposed to H2O2. Health benefits can be obtained from the leaves with decreased risk of disease as the leaves could prevent or protect the oxidative damage caused by environmentally benign oxidant hydrogen peroxide.