The effect of carvacrol on reducing bacterial translocation, liver and intestinal damage in obstructive jaundice models of rats

BACKGROUND Obstructive jaundice is a common surgical issue caused by obstruction in the bile ducts, which can result from factors such as stones or cancers in the main bile duct. This study aimed to investigate the effects of carvacrol, a compound known for its strong antioxidant properties, on intestinal damage, liver damage, and bacterial translocation in an animal model of obstructive jaundice. METHODS The study utilized six groups of six Wistar Albino rats each. Obstructive jaundice was induced in the rats through a surgical procedure, resulting in the enlargement of the common bile duct. Carvacrol was administered at a dose of 100 mg/kg to evaluate its therapeutic effects. Blood samples were collected for biochemical analysis, and tissue samples were obtained from the ileum and liver for histopathological examination. Additionally, samples from the spleen and mesenteric lymph nodes were collected for microbiological analysis. RESULTS The findings revealed that carvacrol did not have a significant therapeutic effect on liver and bowel damage or on bacterial translocation in the rats with obstructive jaundice. Despite carvacrol's known antioxidant properties, it failed to show benefits in this experimental model. CONCLUSION Carvacrol, while recognized for its antioxidant effects, did not demonstrate therapeutic efficacy in treating obstructive jaundice in rats. The study suggests that further research with a larger sample size may be necessary to potentially uncover positive effects and better understand carvacrol's potential role in managing obstructive jaundice.