The effect of Phyllanthus amarus leaf extract on the lipid profile of gentamicin-induced hepatotoxicity in albino rats

Phyllanthus amarus is a medicinal plant, used in traditional practice for treating diseases like hypertension, liver damage and diabetes mellitus. This study aimed to provide a potent therapeutic alternative to conventional drugs in managing liver diseases. Ethanol leaf extract of Phyllanthus amarus at 50, 100 and 200 mg/kg body weight was investigated for its acclaimed hepatoprotective activity in gentamicin-induced hepatotoxicity in albino rats. Thirty albino rats weighing 120-150 g were assigned into six groups (I-VI) of five animals each. Rats in group I (control) received distilled water orally. Rats in groups II, III, IV, V and VI were induced with 100 mg/kg of gentamicin for seven days. Groups III-V were treated with 50, 100 and 200 mg/kg body weight of the extract, respectively while group VI was treated with 200 mg/kg bw of silymarin. The lipid profile that relates to hepatotoxicity was assessed using standard methods. The significantly increased serum and liver lipid profile: cholesterol, triglyceride, Low-density lipoprotein and reduced high-density lipoprotein in the untreated animals were attenuated by the extract. Overall, the extract possesses hepatoprotective activity with 200 mg/kg body weight being the most effective dose. The coronary Heart Index (CRI) was not significantly different from the control. Therefore, the ethanol leaf extract of Phyllanthus amarus could be explored in controlling some of the metabolic dysfunctions usually associated with hepatotoxicity.