Comparative hepatoprotective activity of detoxified roots of Plumbago zeylanica L. and Plumbago rosea L. in Wistar rats

BACKGROUND: Paracetamol (acetaminophen) toxicity is considered to be one of the major causes of drug-induced hepatic failure. Citraka (Plumbago rosea L. and Plumbago zeylanica L.) was mentioned in Ayurveda classics as a remedy in liver disorders. OBJECTIVE(S): The aim of the study was to experimentally evaluate the comparative effect of hepatoprotective activity of detoxified root decoction of the two species of Citraka against paracetamol-induced hepatotoxicity in male Wistar albino rats. MATERIALS AND METHODS: The hepatoprotective effect of Citraka decoction of two species was evaluated by the assessment of biochemical parameters such as SGOT, SGPT, alkaline phosphatase, total bilirubin, direct bilirubin, and serum creatinine. The study was also supported by histopathological assessment of liver sections. RESULTS: The results showed the elevated concentration of biochemical markers and histopathological degenerative changes in animals treated with paracetamol indicating severe hepatic damage; whereas, the treatment with decoction of both the species of Citraka showed significant reduction in the serum markers and regenerative changes in the histopathological specimens pointing towards its effectiveness as a hepatoprotective drug. CONCLUSION: The present study showed Citraka’s effectiveness as a hepatoprotective drug and proved that the detoxified root decoction of P. rosea L. has a significant protective activity against paracetamol-induced hepatotoxicity than P. zeylanica L.