The Hepato-protective effect of Nigella sativa (Black Seeds) on Alcohol induced Hepatotoxicity in rodents

Abstract

Aim: To determine the effect of aqueous extract of Nigella sativa seeds in experimentally induced hepatotoxicity by ethanol in rats. Study Design: Cohort study. Place of study: Animal research lab. Bakhtawar Amin Medical & Dental College, Multan Duration of study: From February 2018 To March 2018. Methods: The rats were separated in a control group (A), hepatitis induced group (B) while the left over two groups(C and D) worked as investigational groups. They received “Nigella sativa” extract as hepatoprotective agent. Group C rats (experimental group Ι received 3g/kg body weight of ethanol as the intra-peritoneal injection and 250mg/kg body weight of “Nigella sativa” seeds extract orally daily . On the other hand group D rats (experimental group ΙΙ) received 3g/kg body wt of ethanol by intraperitoneal injections and aqueous seeds extract of “Nigella sativa” 500mg/kg body wt orally daily. Results: Blood samples were taken at the end of 6 th week and liver was taken out for microscopical exam. The rats of experimental groups showed increase in ALT, AST, and ALP levels. 250mg/kg body weight of “Nigella sativa” seeds extract treatment diminished the level of these factors in rats. On the other hand 500mg/kg body weight of “Nigella sativa” dose considerably reduced levels of these biochemical factors. The histopathological investigation of experimental group Ι rats exhibited slight recovery whereas the rats in group ΙΙ revealed a substantial recovery. Conclusion, “Nigella sative” aqueous seeds extract showed hepato-protection against alcohol induced hepatotoxicity in rats in dose dependant manner.