ETHANOLIC EXTRACT OF VACCINARIA PYRAMIDATA ROOT REVERSES LIVER INJURY INDUCED BY CCL4.

Liver disorders represent a significant global health burden, necessitating the exploration of innovative therapeutic interventions. Vaccaria pyramidata, a perennial plant with rhizomatous roots, has a rich history in traditional medicine, exhibiting diverse pharmacological activities. This study delved into the hepatoprotective potential of an ethanolic extract derived from Vaccaria pyramidata roots using a CCl₄-induced liver injury model in Wistar albino rats. Pretreatment with the ethanolic extract of Vaccaria pyramidata roots demonstrated remarkable hepatoprotective effects, significantly attenuating CCl₄-induced hepatotoxicity. Notably, the extract exhibited superior efficacy in reducing elevated serum enzyme levels, including serum glutamic oxaloacetic transaminase, serum glutamic pyruvic transaminase and alkaline phosphatase, compared to untreated toxic rats. Furthermore, administration of the extract led to a substantial decrease in direct bilirubin levels, highlighting its potential in ameliorating liver dysfunction. Intriguingly, the ethanolic extract of Vaccaria pyramidata roots exhibited potent antioxidant activity, as evidenced by its ability to scavenge free radicals in DPPH and ABTS assays, along with a high total flavonoid content. Additionally, the extract demonstrated efficacy in reducing triglyceride levels, suggesting potential lipidlowering effects. These findings underscore the promising therapeutic potential of Vaccaria pyramidata root ethanolic extract as a novel hepatoprotective agent. Further research is warranted to elucidate its underlying mechanisms of action and explore its clinical applications in the management of liver disorders. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]