Effect of Nigella sativa seed extract on carbon tetrachloride-induced hepatotoxicity in rats

BackgroundNigella sativa is a spice consumed in India. It has been used in folk medicine for protection against liver diseases in Ayurveda, the Indian system of medicine.PurposeThe objective of the study is to examine the pre- and post-treatment effects of N. sativa against carbon tetrachloride (CCl4)-induced liver damage in rats.MethodsA 10% aqueous extract of N. sativa was administered to CCl4-treated male Wistar rats for 28 days. Hepatoprotective activity was assessed by using various enzymatic antioxidants and histopathological studies.ResultsThe subsequently elevated enzymatic levels of aspartate transaminase, alanine transminase, alkaline phosphatase, acid phosphatase, and lactate dehydrogenase were significantly restored toward normalization by the 10% aqueous extract of N. sativa. The extract shows significantly increased cellular glutathione level and antioxidant enzymes levels such as superoxide dismutase, catalase, peroxidase, glutathione peroxidase, and glutathione reductase, and inhibited malondialdehyde generation in CCl4-treated rats. Phytochemical analysis revealed the presence of phenols, flavonoids, and saponins, which are known for their hepatoprotective activities.ConclusionN. sativa possesses significant protective effects against hepatotoxicity induced by CCl4, which may be attributed to the combined action of phytoconstituents present in N. sativa.