Protective role of geraniol in high fat diet-induced NAFLD: balancing lipid homeostasis, antioxidant defence, and inflammatory responses.

Objectives: This study aimed to evaluate the preventive effects of geraniol on non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) induced by a high fat diet (HFD) in a rat model, focusing on its impact on lipid metabolism, oxidative stress, and inflammation.

Methods: NAFLD was induced in male Sprague-Dawley rats by feeding them a HFD for 10 weeks. Geraniol was administered orally at doses of 50, 100, and 200 mg/kg. The following parameters were assessed: body weight, hepatic index, lipid profile (total cholesterol, triglycerides, HDL, LDL), serum hepatic enzymes (ALT, AST, ALP), oxidative stress markers (MDA, SOD, CAT, GSH), and inflammatory markers (TNF-α, IL-6, IL-10). Histopathological evaluation of liver tissues was performed to assess structural changes and inflammation.

Key findings: Geraniol treatment, particularly at 100 and 200 mg/kg, significantly reduced body weight gain and hepatic index in HFD-fed rats. It improved lipid profiles by lowering total cholesterol, triglycerides, and LDL while increasing HDL levels. Hepatic enzyme levels were markedly decreased, indicating hepatoprotection. Geraniol also restored antioxidant enzyme activity and reduced markers of oxidative stress. Moreover, it lowered pro-inflammatory cytokines and elevated anti-inflammatory cytokines. Histopathological analysis confirmed reduced hepatic steatosis and inflammation.

Conclusions: Geraniol demonstrated potent protective effects against HFD-induced NAFLD in rats by improving lipid metabolism, mitigating oxidative stress, and modulating inflammatory responses. These findings support its potential as a therapeutic agent for the prevention and management of NAFLD.