ABSTRACT:
The present investigation objectives were to conduct antioxidant assessment and hepatoprotective activity of Aponogeton natans (Linn.) Engl. and Krause used by tribals. Aponogeton natans is important ingredient in preparation of Ayurvedic preparation, Useerasava. The screening for hepatoprotective activity against diclofenac sodium induced hepatotoxicity was followed as per standard procedure. Animals received 15mg/kg diclofenac to induce hepatotoxicity. Vehicle is administred to Group I, Group II served as toxic control. 200 mg/kg of petroleum ether, benzene, chloroform, methanol extracts and silymarin 10 mg/kg were administered to Group III, IV, V, VI and VII respectively. The groups, which received methanol and chloroform extracts significantly, controlled the biochemical parameters. The methanol extract and chloroform extract, increased the serum total protein level as compared to toxic control group. The methanol extract showed better free radical scavenging activity among the four extracts. The antioxidants activity increased by methanol, chloroform extracts and standard drug silymarin. Methanol extract increased the level of biochemical parameters when compared to toxic control. The methanol extract found to significantly increase the level of antioxidants levels. The results further supported by histopathological evidences. From the results revealed and concluded that methanol extract of Aponogeton natans has the highest antioxidant and hepatoproptective activity.