Picroside-1-phytovesicle: A novel approach for antihepatotoxic activity

Picroside-I, the irridoid glycoside component obtained from Picrorhiza kurroa Royal Ex. Benth. extract was stoichiometrically complexed with phospholipids to form Phytosome. These complexes were characterized by IR and 1H-NMR spectroscopy. The efficacy of phytosome formulation was determined by in vitro GIT absorption study which indicates greater absorption from gastrointestinal tract, resulted in higher plasma levels. The hepatic protection offered by phytosomes was studied against CCl4 induced hepatotoxicity and compared with picroside-I, by measuring bio-chemical parameters in terms of SGOT and SGPT enzyme levels. Phytosomes exhibited appreciable greater hepatoprotection than that of picroside-I alone. Therefore, phytosome can advantageously be used in acute and chronic liver disease of varying origin.