The Role of Ficus carica Leaf Extract in Modulation of the experimentally induced Hepatotoxic Damage in Male Rats

Background: Hepatic diseases remain problems throughout the world. Egypt has the highest country wind prevalence of hepatic C virus, there are no completely effective drugs that stimulate hepatic function and help to regenerate liver cells. Thus, it is necessary to obtain pharmaceutical alternatives for liver diseases. The aim of this study was to estimate the hepatoprotective activity of methanolic leaves extract of Ficus carica in a rat model of CCl4-induced liver damage. Animal grouping: Adult male rats weighting 100-120g, were divided into five groups as the following (1) Control group. (2) Olive oil treated group(2.5ml/ kg bw)day after day for8 weeks. (3)Ficus carica extract treated group (500mg/kg) orally by the same manner and duration. (4)Carbon tetrachloride intoxicated group (CCl4): CCl4 dissolved in olive oil (V/V) at a dose (2.5ml /kg body weight) orally by the same manner and duration. (5)Ficus carica extract administered orally before CCl4 –intoxication by the same dose, manner and duration. Results: CCl4-significantly altered serum and hepatic enzymes, total protein, albumin, globulin, oxidative stress markers and lipid profiles. The Ficus extract showed are notable amelioration in all biochemical alteration comparing with normal control rats. Conclusion: It can be concluded that supplementation of Ficus extract can exert a hepatoprotective effect in rat model of CCl4-induced liver damage, which was attributed to the strong antioxidant power.