Antioxidant and hepatoprotective activities of methanol extract of Moringa oleifera leaves in carbon tetrachloride-induced hepatotoxicity in rats: Implications for functional food development
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.31989/afbc.v2i7.1722Περίληψη
Background: The global rise in liver diseases associated with environmental toxins and lifestyle factors has intensified interest in functional foods with hepatoprotective properties. Moringa oleifera, a multipurpose, edible plant with established nutritional value, represents a promising candidate as a functional food due to its bioactive compound profile and traditional medicinal applications.
Objective: This investigation evaluated the antioxidant and hepatoprotective properties of methanol extract from Moringa oleifera leaves (MOEXT) against carbon tetrachloride (CCl₄)-induced liver damage in experimental rats, with a specific focus on its potential as a functional food ingredient for liver health.
Methods: We assessed MOEXT's antioxidant capacity through DPPH scavenging, ABTS neutralization, and ferric reduction assays. Safety evaluation followed OECD protocol 423. Hepatoprotective evaluation utilized the CCl₄ liver damage model in Wistar rats, with assessment of liver biomarkers, oxidative stress indicators, and tissue morphology. Functional food applications were evaluated based on bioactive compound stability and efficacy.
Results: MOEXT exhibited concentration-dependent antioxidant properties with IC₅₀ values of 28.4 ± 2.1 μg/mL (DPPH) and 31.7 ± 1.8 μg/mL (ABTS). Safety studies indicated LD₅₀ exceeding 5000 mg/kg, supporting its food safety profile. MOEXT significantly (p < 0.001) prevented CCl₄-induced increases in liver enzymes (AST, ALT, ALP) and bilirubin concentrations. The extract enhanced antioxidant enzyme function (SOD, CAT, GPx) and decreased lipid peroxidation markers. Microscopic examination confirmed protective effects on liver structure, demonstrating the potential for incorporating M. oleifera into functional food products.
Conclusion: MOEXT demonstrates significant antioxidant and hepatoprotective activities, supporting its development as a functional food ingredient for liver health maintenance. These findings provide scientific validation for incorporating M. oleifera into nutraceutical and functional food products targeting hepatic wellness.
Keywords: Moringa oleifera, functional foods, nutraceuticals, liver protection, antioxidant activity, bioactive compounds, agricultural biotechnology
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