Hepatoprotective studies on haloxylon salicornicum: a plant from cholistan desert

ABSTRACT

The objective was to study the in-vivo hepatoprotective effect of aerial parts vi Haloxylon salicornicum [Moq.] Bunge [Family Chenopodiaceae] in order to validate its traditional use in hepatobiliary disorders, by native people of Cholistan desert, Pakistan. Aerial parts [ethanolic extract] ofHaloxylon salicornicum [HS], [500 and 750 mg/kg/day, p.o. for 7 days] were evaluated on CC1[4] intoxicated rabbits [0.75 ml/kg., s/c.] by serum biochemical parameters and liver histopathological observations. Silymarin [100 mg/kg/day, p.o. for 7 days] was used as a standard hepatoprotective drug. CC1[4] intoxicated group had elevated levels of SCOT, SGPT and ALP significantly but TB level was normal as compared to control group. HS extract [both doses of 500 and 750 mg/kg] showed hepatoprotective effect by significant restoration of SCOT, SGPT, ALP and TB levels as compared to CC1[4] control. 500 mg/kg doses of HS extract produced more significant results as compared to 750 mg/kg doses and Silymarin. Histopathological examination of liver tissues further substantiated these findings. Therefore, outcome of the present study validate the traditional claims on hepatoprotective effects ofHaloxylon salicornicum [aerial parts]