Hepatoprotective and antioxidant activity of Oxalis stricta L. against hepatic damage in albino rats

The present study aimed to investigate the preliminary screening of aerial parts of Oxalis stricta L. extracts for liver protective activity in albino rats using an in vitro hepatoprotective model. The liver-protective effects of the ethanolic extract of Oxalis stricta L. (EEOS) on carbon tetrachloride (CCl₄)-induced liver damage in albino rats were evaluated. The extracts were administered at doses of 250 mg/kg and 500 mg/kg to counteract liver toxicity caused by CCl₄, which was given at a dose of 1 ml/kg subcutaneously once daily. Key hepatic parameters, including serum glutamate pyruvate transaminase (SGPT), serum glutamate oxaloacetate transaminase (SGOT), alkaline phosphatase (ALP), and bilirubin levels, were assessed. The standard drug Silymarin (100 mg/kg) orally administered to albino rats served as a mention group. Animals treated with CCl₄ exhibited elevated lipid peroxidation levels along with decreased activity of superoxide dismutase (SOD) and catalase. Their reduced glutathione (GSH) levels reflected a decrease in hepatic antioxidant status compared to the control group. Histopathological observations revealed 70% ethanolic concentrate of O. stricta had potential hepatoprotective and antioxidant action. However, further examination is required to distinguish, describe, and normalize valuable compounds and their preparations for treating liver diseases. It should be helpful resource for hepatoprotective lead therapeutics, which may offer new opportunities.