Hepatoprotective Effects of Talinum Triangulare Aqueous Extract on Paracetamol-Induced Liver Damage in Wistar Rats: A Histomorphological Study
Achi Franklyn U.
Department of Morbid Anatomy, Faculty of Medical Laboratory Science, University of Nigeria Teaching Hospital, Enugu, Enugu State, Nigeria.
Chiagozie King-Bertram C.
Department of Medical Laboratory Science, Faculty of Health Science and Technology, University of Nigeria, Enugu Campus, Enugu State, Nigeria.
Esther I. Etu
Department of Anatomic Pathology, Faculty of Basic Clinical Science, Alex Ekwueme Federal University Ndufu Alike, Ebonyi State, Nigeria.
Chinedu Maduka P.
Department of Medical Laboratory Science, Faculty of Health Science and Technology, University of Nigeria, Enugu Campus, Enugu State, Nigeria.
Ekoh Adaorah J.
Department of Histopathology, Enugu State Teaching Hospital, Parklane, Enugu, Enugu State, Nigeria.
Nyejirime, Young W. *
Department of Human Physiology, Faculty of Basic Medical Science, State University of Medical and Applied Science, Igbo-eno, Enugu State, Nigeria.
*Author to whom correspondence should be addressed.
Abstract
Background and Aim: Many vital bodily processes are carried out by the liver, and if it develops a disease, those processes may cease, which might seriously affect the function of the body. Talinum triangulare has been documented to possess hepato-protective, antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activities. This study aims to evaluate the potential of Talinum triangulare aqueous extract in protecting and repairing liver damage induced by paracetamol through histomorphological analysis in Wistar rats.
Methods: Thirty-five Wistar rats were divided into five groups: a negative control, a positive control (paracetamol only), and three treatment groups receiving paracetamol followed by 100, 200, or 300 mg/kg body weight of T. triangulare extract for seven days. The experiment lasted for 14 days.
Results: Histomorphological examination showed significant liver deterioration in the untreated group (Group 2), whereas Groups 3, 4, and 5 treated with Talinum triangulare extract exhibited notable recovery. There was reduced necrosis, inflammation and improved hepatocyte regeneration.
Conclusion: The findings indicate that T. triangulare extract exhibits significant hepatoprotective effects, suggesting its potential as a natural remedy for managing paracetamol-induced liver injuries.
Significance: The result from this study will create more awareness on the need to avoid the abuse of paracetamol.
Keywords: Paracetamol, Talinum triangulare, liver injury, histology