Antioxidant-Mediated Hepatoprotective Activity of Curcuma pseudo-montana Rhizome Extracts Against D-Galactosamine-Induced Hepatic Injury in Rats

Abstract

Background: Liver diseases remain a major global health problem, and currently available therapies are often associated with limitations and adverse effects. Medicinal plants rich in antioxidant phytoconstituents have emerged as promising alternatives for the management of hepatic disorders. Curcuma pseudo-montana is traditionally used in folk medicine for the treatment of various ailments, including liver-related disorders. Objective: The present study was undertaken to evaluate the hepatoprotective effect of 50% methanolic extract of Curcuma pseudo-montana rhizomes against D-galactosamine-induced hepatic injury in rats. Materials and Methods: Hepatic injury was induced in Wistar albino rats using D-galactosamine (600 mg/kg, i.p.). Animals were treated with 50% methanolic extract of Curcuma pseudo-montana rhizomes at doses of 200 and 400 mg/kg body weight. Silymarin (100 mg/kg) was used as the standard hepatoprotective drug. Serum biochemical markers including SGOT, SGPT, ALP, bilirubin, and total protein were evaluated. Antioxidant parameters such as catalase (CAT), superoxide dismutase (SOD), reduced glutathione (GSH), and malondialdehyde (MDA) were estimated. Histopathological examination of liver tissues was also performed. Results: D-galactosamine administration produced significant hepatic injury characterized by elevated serum SGOT, SGPT, ALP, and bilirubin levels along with a reduction in total protein content. Oxidative stress was evidenced by decreased CAT, SOD, and GSH levels and increased MDA concentration. Treatment with the 50% methanolic extract significantly restored liver function markers and antioxidant enzyme levels in a dose-dependent manner. The higher dose (400 mg/kg) demonstrated greater hepatoprotective activity and significantly reduced lipid peroxidation. Histopathological examination confirmed marked protection against hepatocellular degeneration, necrosis, and inflammatory infiltration, with near-normal hepatic architecture observed in the high-dose treatment group. Conclusion: The findings demonstrate that the 50% methanolic extract of Curcuma pseudo-montana rhizomes possesses significant hepatoprotective activity against D-galactosamine-induced liver injury. The protective effect may be attributed to its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, supporting the traditional use of the plant in liver disorders.