Histopathological effect of aqueous bitter leaf extract (Vernonia amygdalina) on acetaminophen-induced liver damage in albino rat (Rattus norvegicus)

Abstract

Liver diseases are a worldwide problem. Medicinal plants are being increasingly utilized to treat a wide variety of diseases, liver disorder inclusive. The effect of aqueous leaf extracts of Vernonia amygdalina on acetaminophen-induced liver damage via the assessment of the histopathological examination was examined. Five groups of albino rats were used (n = 5). Animals in group 1 were fed normal laboratory pellet and water ad libitum (Control); those in group 2 received 3000mg/kg of acetaminophen alone. Groups 3, 4 and 5 received 3000mg/kg of acetaminophen and in addition 50mg/kg Vernonia amygdalina leaf extract. 100mg/kg Vernonia amygdalina leaf extract and 200mg/kg Silymarin, respectively for 14 days. Twenty-four hours after the last administration, the animals were sacrificed. The organs (liver) was excised and used for the histopathological examination. Histological examinations of the liver showed acetaminophen-induced hepatotoxicity. Histology of the liver revealed altered cellular architecture (poor architecture, moderate to severe congestion of the portal vein as well as severe peri portal infiltration of inflammatory cells, the liver parenchyma also showed area with destroyed liver plates with severe hemorrhage and necrosis. The morphology of the hepatocytes showed some degenerated liver cells, the liver parenchyma also showed focal area of moderate aggregate of inflammatory cells) following administration of acetaminophen (Group 2). Normal histological features were restored after treatment with aqueous leaf extract of Vernonia amygdalina. The study has demonstrated that aqueous leaf extract of Vernonia amygdalina ameliorate liver of rats against acetaminophen-induced toxicity and modulates the adverse effects of acetaminophen on the liver