Saponin Fractions of Citrullus lanatus (Watermelon) seed Ameliorates Ethanol-Induced Hepatotoxicity in Adult Male Wistar Rats

Abstract

Liver injury and disease caused by alcohol is a common complication to human health worldwide. Saponins derived from natural sources have long been known to offer several therapeutic effects in African herbal and traditional medicine. The study evaluated the therapeutic effects of the saponin fraction of Citrullus lanatus seed against ethanol induced hepatotoxicity. The rats were assigned into six groups: normal, ethanol (10 ml/kg of 50% ethanol), saponins (200 mg/kg/day), ethanol plus low and high dosages of saponins (ET + 50 and 100/200 mg/kg SCL), and ethanol plus Silymarin (ET + 100 mg/kg SLY). Plasma and serum enzymatic markers, alanine aminotransferase (ALT), aspartate aminotransferase (AST), alkaline phosphatase (ALP), Albumin, total protein and nonenzymatic markers (cholesterol triglycerides, low density and high density lipoprotein) were examine. Saponins (SCL) significantly (p <0.05) reduced ethanol induced elevations in ALP, AST, ALT while total protein and albumin were significantly increased (p><0.05). Non enzymatic marker, when rats given SCL were compared to untreated ethanol rats, Triglyceride, Cholesterol, and low density lipoprotein levels dramatically decreased (p >< 0.05), but high density lipoprotein levels increased. A histological examination significantly corroborated the biochemical assay result. According to the findings of this study, saponins diminish the rise in liver function enzymes and decreased in lipid profile parameters. The saponin-rich fraction of Citrullus lanatus seed exhibits anti-ethanol induced liver damage potential. As a result, SCL may work as a plant-based natural therapy to prevent liver damage.