Fresh Garlic Extract Protects The Liver Against Acetaminophen-Induced Toxicity

Abstract

Acetaminophen toxicity is a major course of acute liver failure. Many plants have been reported to show hepatoprotective activities. This study was to determine the protective potential of fresh garlic extract on acetaminophen toxicity and to demonstrate its dose dependence. Sixty Swiss mice were divided into six groups of ten. Group I served as negative control and were treated with physiological saline. Group II served as the positive control and received 250 mg/kg body weight of acetaminophen only. Groups III, IV, and V were pretreated with daily administration of 250 mg/kg, 500 mg/kg, and 750 mg/kg of garlic respectively, for five days followed by 250 mg/kg of acetaminophen. Group VI were pretreated with 25 mg/kg silymarin prior to 250 mg/kg acetaminophen. Blood samples were collected after six hours of acetaminophen and used for biochemical studies, while liver was excised from each mouse and used to prepare hematoxylin / eosin sections. The alterations in AST, ALT, alkaline phosphatase, and serum albumin were significantly prevented by prior administration of garlic extract. Also the histological changes induced by acetaminophen overdose were prevented by garlic. We conclude that fresh garlic extract protected the liver against toxic doses of acetaminophen and suggest that its use could protect against hepatitis.