Hepatoprotective and antioxidant effects of wheat, carrot, and mango as nutraceutical agents against CCl4-induced hepatocellular toxicity.

BACKGROUND AND AIMS: During the last decade, there has been a growing interest in replacing synthetic antioxidants by natural ones because they are cheaper and safe. The main aim of this work was to investigate the possible role of carrot, mango, and wheat extracts against carbon tetrachloride (CCl4)-induced oxidative stress and hepatotoxicity.
METHODS: Forty albino rats were recruited and divided into 5 groups. Group 1 was fed a basal diet and group 2 was fed a basal diet and CCl4. Groups 3, 4, and 5 were treated with carrot, mango, and wheat extracts, respectively, in addition to a basal diet and CCl4.
RESULTS: Hepatocellular toxicity decreased significantly following treatment. Lipid profile and liver enzymes markers decreased remarkably and total protein and high-density lipoprotein (HDL) increased dramatically. The oxidative stress has decreased noticeably through the decrease in Malondialdehyde (MDA). Microscopic examination of the treated rats exhibited a normal histopathological structure.
CONCLUSION: These data suggest that carrot, mango, and wheat extracts could be used as nutraceuticals for the prophylaxis and treatment against hepatotoxicity and oxidative stress. This is the first study of its kind that highlights the importance of including such plants in the dairy and food industry for the prevention of hepatocellular toxicity and oxidative stress.