Hepatotoxicity induced by Peganum harmala and the protective potential of medicinal plant in rats

Abstract

Peganum harmala is known for its various pharmacological activities, but excessive administration may lead to severe liver damage associated with oxidative stress and cellular alterations.In contrast, Silybum marianum is recognized for its antioxidant and hepatoprotective properties.Thisstudy investigated the hepatotoxicity of Peganum harmala

(PGE) exposure on physiological, biochemical, and oxidative stress parameters in Albino- Wistar rats, while also evaluating the hepatoprotective role of Silybum marianum (SME).

20 female rats were divided into four experimental groups: control(receive drinking water and standard food), PHE-only (received a decoction prepared from 60 mg/kg of Peganum harmala), SME-only (received a dose of 80 mg/kg) and PHE+SME (received Silybum marianum 80 mg/kg followed one hour later by Peganum harmala 60 mg/kg). The treatments were administered orally for 45 consecutive days. The results demonstrated that administration of Peganum harmala induced significant hepatotoxicity, characterized by elevated liver enzyme levels (ALAT, ASAT), altered metabolic markers (Triglycérides, Albumin), and increased oxidative stress, as evidenced by significant changes in CAT activity and GSH levels.Conversely, treatment with Silybum marianum showed a protective effect by improving biochemical parameters and reducing hepatic damage. These findings suggest that Silybum marianum may attenuate liver injury caused by Peganum harmala through its antioxidant and hepatoprotectiveactivities.