The objective of the present study was to investigate and establish the hepatoprotective and antioxidant potential of Delonix regia leaves. In order to accomplish the objective, the leaf powder of the plant was extracted with 80% ethanol using soxhlet apparatus. The extract was found to contain alkaloids, phenols, tannins, flavonoids and triterpenoids. The total phenolic content of the extract was found to be 63.27±0.59 GAE mg/g. Hepatoprotective activity of the extract was determined in D-Galactosamine induced hepatotoxicity model at two doses (200 mg/kg and 400 mg/kg). Treatment with both doses of the extract of Delonix regia leaves decreased the D-Galactosamine induced alteration in SGOT, SGPT, ALP, ACP, total bilirubin and direct bilirubin in blood. It was also found that the Delonix regia leaf extract counteracted the D-Galactosamine-induced free radical activity that is equivalent to that of Vitamin E. SOD, GPx and CAT enzyme levels are statistically significant increased, whereas lipid peroxidation is decreased, when compared to D-galactosamine treated animals (P < 0.05).

Delonix regia, D-Galactosamine, oxidative stress, hepatoprotective, antioxidant, extract

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