Hepatoprotective Activity of the Fruits of Eleutherococcus senticosus in Acetaminophen-Induced Liver Injury in Mice and Their Chemical Composition.

Background/

Objectives

Eleutherococcus senticosus (Siberian ginseng) is an adaptogenic plant widely recognized for its antioxidant and immunomodulatory properties; however its hepatoprotective potential properties are unexplored. This study aimed to evaluate whether the fruit extract of E. senticosus contains chemical constituents with hepatoprotective effects in a paracetamol-induced liver injury model in mice.

Methods

Female BALB/c mice were randomized into five groups: control, paracetamol (300 mg/kg, IP), E. senticosus extract (750 or 1500 mg/kg, PO) + paracetamol, and silymarin (50 mg/kg) + paracetamol. Extracts were administered for seven days before paracetamol challenge. Biochemical markers (ALT, AST, urea, creatinine, protein, albumin) and hematological parameters were assessed, and organs were subjected to histopathological examination. Phytochemical characterization of the extract was performed using UHPLC-DAD-MS and ICP-OES.

Results

The 750 mg/kg dose of E. senticosus extract maintained ALT, AST, urea, and creatinine levels close to control values, while the higher dose (1500 mg/kg) was less effective and showed an increase in serum urea. Both extract doses and silymarin attenuated creatinine elevation induced by paracetamol. No histopathological changes were detected in the kidneys or brains of treated animals. Phytochemical analysis revealed high contents of phenolic acids (chlorogenic and dicaffeoylquinic acids), flavonoids, amino acids, and essential minerals.

Conclusions

E. senticosus fruit extract demonstrated a hepatoprotective effect at an optimal dose (750 mg/kg), indicating a potential dose-dependent effect. The absence of histopathological alterations in key organs supports the fruit extract's safety.