HEPATOPROTECTIVE EFFECT OF ETHANOLIC EXTRACT OF CURCUMA LONGA LINN ON ANTITUBERCULAR DRUGS INDUCED HEPATOTOXICITY IN ALBINO RATS

Abstract

Objective: The aim of this study was to screen the hepatoprotective effect of ethanolic extract of Curcuma longa on antitubercular drugs induced hepatotoxicity in rats. Methods: Hepatotoxicity was induced by a combination of three antitubercular drugs [isoniazid (I) 7.5mg/kg, Rifampin (R) 10 mg/kg and Pyrazinamide (P) 35mg/kg] given orally as a suspension for 30 days in rats. 95% ethanolic extract of Curcuma longa (500mg/kg) was given orally for 30 days. The hepatoprotective activity was assessed using various biochemical parameters like SGOT, SGPT, ALP, Total bilirubin, unconjugated bilirubin, and total protein. At the end of study histological examinations were also carried out. Results: Treatment with Curcuma longa significantly (P<0.05-P<0.001) prevented the drug- induced an increase in serum levels of hepatic enzymes. Histopathology of liver tissue showed that Curcuma longa preserved the normal hepatic cell architecture. Conclusion: The results of this study indicate the protective effect of Curcuma longa against liver injury which may be attributed to its hepatoprotective activity, and thereby scientifically support its traditional uses.