The Hepato-Renal Protective Potential of Different Fractions of Celtis occidentalis against Paracetamol-Intoxicated Hepatotoxicity in Rabbits; In-Vitro Antioxidant Assay

Abstract

The present study investigated the antioxidant, hepatoprotective, and nephroprotective effects of various fractions (n-hexane, chloroform, aqueous, and ethyl acetate) of Celtis occidentalis leaves against paracetamol-induced toxicity in male rabbits. The in vitro antioxidant activity was assessed using the DPPH radical scavenging assay, while in vivo protective effects were evaluated in ninety male rabbits divided into fifteen groups (n=6). Group 1 served as the control, and Group 2 received paracetamol (2 g/kg). Groups 3–14 received different fractions of C. occidentalis at doses of 100, 200, and 300 mg/kg along with paracetamol, while Group 15 received silymarin (50 mg/kg) as the standard. After 21 days, hematological, biochemical, and histopathological analyses were performed. Paracetamol administration caused significant alterations in hematological indices, liver and kidney function markers, lipid profile, and body weight. Treatment with C. occidentalis fractions significantly ameliorated these changes in a dose-dependent manner, with higher doses showing the most pronounced effects. Histopathological observations supported biochemical findings, confirming tissue recovery. Among all fractions, the chloroform and aqueous extracts exhibited the strongest antioxidant, hepatoprotective, and nephroprotective activities, validating the therapeutic potential of Celtis occidentalis leaves.