Hepatoprotection by Elephantopus scaber Linn. in CCl4-induced liver injury.

The efficacy of the medicinal plant Elephantopus scaber Linn. (Asteraceae), to prevent carbon teterachloride (CCI4)-induced chronic liver dysfunction in the rats was examined by determining different biochemical markers in serum and tissues. In serum, liver function marker enzymes like aspartate aminotrasferase (AST), alanine aminotrasferase (ALT), alkaline phosphatase (ALP) and also protein were evaluated. The concentrations of total lipid, cholesterol and phospholipids were studied in serum and the different tissues. The concentration of serum triglycerides was also studied. The biochemical changes induced by CCI4 in different tissues particularly in the liver tissue improved following treatment with E. scaber Linn. The results suggest the hepatoprotective effect of this medicinal plant.