Abstract

The protective effect of Terminalia belerica fruit extract and its active principle (gallic acid: 3,4,5- trihydroxybenzoic acid) were investigated against carbon tetrachloride induced toxicity in rats. Carbon tetrachloride caused significant increase in the activity of alkaline phosphatase, transaminases and protein content. Hepatic lipid peroxidation increased significantly while reduced glutathione level in liver decreased after toxicant administration. Considerable inhibition was observed in glycogen content as well as in the activity of alkaline phosphatase, succinic dehydrogenase and adenosine triphosphatase in liver and kidney. Activity of acid phosphatase elevated significantly in both the organs. Recoupment was seen in almost all the parameters by therapy with extract and active principle intoxicant induced subjects. The degree of protection conferred by active principle was more as compared to ethanolic extract of Terminalia belerica.