Hepatoprotective Effect of Cochlospermum planchonii Methanol Root Extract in Albino Rats

Abstract

Across much of West Africa, root and rhizome decoctions of Cochlospermum planchonii are used to manage jaundice and other liver-related complaints, yet this folk use has not been widely tested under controlled experimental conditions. This study was designed to evaluate the hepatoprotective activity of  methanol root extract of C. planchonii in albino rats, conducted between March to April 2026. Fresh roots were harvested, botanically authenticated, air-dried, and macerated in methanol to obtain the extract. Percentage yield was determined and a qualitative phytochemical screening was performed (Harborne, 1973; Trease and Evans, 1989). Acute oral toxicity was assessed at 5000 mg/kg. Thirty albino rats were assigned to six groups: a normal control, a disease (negative) control, a silymarin-treated positive control (1.07 mg/kg), and three extract-treated groups (100, 200, and 400 mg/kg body weight). Serum liver-function markers (AST, ALT, ALP, albumin, total protein, and total and direct bilirubin) were measured, and liver tissue was examined histologically. Data were analyzed by one-way ANOVA. Extraction yielded 11.54% of a dark-green, water-soluble concentrate containing tannins, flavonoids, alkaloids, cardiac glycosides, steroids, and saponins. No mortality occurred at 5000 mg/kg, placing the LD⁵⁰ above this dose. AST was significantly elevated in the negative control and in the 100 and 200 mg/kg extract groups, whereas the 400 mg/kg group showed AST values comparable to the normal control; ALT and ALP did not differ significantly among groups. Histology showed better-preserved liver architecture and reduced inflammatory change in the extract-treated animals, most evident at 400 mg/kg.