Hepatoprotective Effect on Theobroma Cacao L. In Toluene-Induced Wistar Rats

This research investigated whether an n-hexane leaf extract of Theobroma cacao could protect against toluene-induced liver damage in male Wistar rats. Liver injury was evaluated by measuring serum enzymes (ALP, ALT, AST), total protein, albumin and liver tissue oxidative stress markers (MDA, GSH, SOD, catalase). Thirty-five healthy male rats were divided into five groups (n = 6). Group 1 (normal control) and Group 2 (positive control) received distilled water. Groups 3 and 4 were given 200 mg/kg and 400 mg/kg of the extract, respectively. Group 5 received 200 mg/kg vitamin E daily for 21 days. Groups 2–5 all received a single dose of toluene (50 mg/kg) before starting treatment. After 21 days, the rats were sacrificed under chloroform anesthesia; blood was collected for liver function tests and liver tissues were homogenized for antioxidant assays. Toluene significantly (p < 0.05) increased serum MDA, AST, ALP and ALT, while decreasing total protein, albumin, SOD, catalase and GSH compared to normal controls. Treatment with the extract (especially the 400 mg/kg dose) reversed these abnormalities: MDA, AST, ALP and ALT fell, while total protein, albumin and antioxidant enzyme levels rose relative to the positive control. These results indicate that T. cacao leaf extract contains antioxidant phytochemicals that may provide hepatoprotective benefits.