Hepatoprotective Activity of Ficus carica Leaf Extract on Rifampicin-Induced Hepatic Damage in Rats

Shade dried leaves of Ficus carica were extracted using petroleum ether (60-80 degrees) and tested for antihepatotoxic activity on rats treated with 50 mg/kg of rifampicin orally. The parameters assessed were serum levels of glutamic oxaloacetate transaminase, glutamic pyruvic transaminase, bilirubin and histological changes in liver. Liver weights and pentobarbitione sleeping time as a functional parameter were also monitored. There was significant reversal of biochemical, histological and functional changes induced by rifampicin treatment in rats by petroleum ether extract treatment, indicating promising hepatoprotective activity.