Effect of Curculigo orchioides in experimental hepatotoxicity in cockerels

Abstract

Ethanolic and aqueous extracts prepared from rhizomes of Curculigo orchioides as herbal medicines were evaluated against acetaminophen-induced hepatotoxicity in cockerels. Acetaminophen @ 500 mg/ body weight orally was given to induce hepatocellular damage. Cockerels given with ethanolic extract of Curculigo orchioides @ 70 mg/kg body wt and acetaminophen revealed restoration of Hb, PCV, TEC, TLC and lymphocytes and heterophils as well as total protein, albumin and globulin, glucose, cholesterol, bilirubin and activity of AST, ALT, ALP and LDH. The biochemical results were parallel to the histopathological analysis of liver sections as treated birds clearly showed normal hepatic cells and central vein thereby confirming hepatoprotective activity. These findings had suggested that Curculigo orchioides is a promising product in protecting the liver against toxic injury via the restoration of haematalogical and biochemical parameter. Aqueous extract showed least activity. Ethanolic extract showed presence of alkaloid, flavonoid, glycosides, Protein, reducing sugars, resin, saponins and sterol.