Hydroalcoholic Leaf Extract of Hibiscus cannabinus Restores Antioxidant Enzymes and Ameliorates HAART-Induced Hepatotoxicity in Wistar Rats

Abstract

Background: Long-term use of highly active antiretroviral therapy (HAART), typically with zidovudine, lamivudine, and nevirapine, induces hepatic oxidative stress and toxicity Objective: The antioxidant and hepatoprotective activity of hydroalcoholic leaf extract of Hibiscus cannabinus (HC) was assessed in this study against HAART-induced oxidative injury. Methods: Wistar rats were divided into three groups: Control, HAART, and HAART+HC extract. The marker levels of peroxisomal (SOD, CAT, GPx) and lipoxidative (MDA) stress were measured. Histopathological examination of the Results: HAART significantly reduced SOD, CAT, and GPx activities (p<0.05) but elevated MDA levels. HC extract-treated rats recovered the activities of antioxidant enzymes and reduced lipid peroxidation near normal. Histopathology confirmed the maintenance of the structure of the hepatic tissue in the HC-treated rats. Conclusion: H. cannabinus extract reduces HAART-related hepatotoxicity through replenishment of antioxidant levels, which suggests potential as an adjunct nutraceutical. Keywords: Hibiscus cannabinus, HAART, oxidative stress, hepatoprotection, antioxidants, Wistar rats