Evaluation of hepatoprotective activity of alcoholic and aqueous extracts of Selaginella lepidophylla

ObjectiveTo screen Selaginella lepidophylla (S. lepidophylla) that are used in traditional medicine for their claimed hepatoprotective properties.MethodsAlcoholic and aqueous extracts of S. lepidophylla were evaluated for their hepatoprotective activity using CCl4 and paracetamol induced acute hepatic injury model.ResultsTreatment with CCl4 and paracetamol significantly increased liver weight and volume compared to the normal group. Pretreatment with silymarin alcoholic and aqueous extracts significantly prevent increase in liver weight and volume.ConclusionsFrom the present experimental study it can be concluded that alcoholic and aqueous extract of S. lepidophylla exhibited significant hepatoprotective activity against CCl4 and paracetamol induced hepatotoxicity in rats, as result showed in physical, biochemical and histopathological parameters.