Modulatory Activity of Aqueous Extract of Carica Papaya Seed on carbon Tetra-Chloride-Induced Hepatotoxicity in Wistar Rats

The effect of aqueous extract of ripe Carica papaya seed on liver function enzymes of CCl4 induced hepatotoxic liver was studied. Thirty (30) adult Wister rats were randomly divided into five (5) experimental groups. (n=6). Group A, were fed with rat chow and water ad labium and Groups B,C, D and E received 0.8mg/kg of CCl4 toxicant and Group C,D and E were treated with 100mg/kg, 200mg/kg and 300mg/kg of the extract respectively for 28 days. After an overnight fast, the rats were sacrificed and blood collected for assay of liver function enzyme levels. The results showed a statistically significant (p < 0.05) increase in the level of all liver function enzymes in the CCl4 only treated group (Group B) compared to the control and a dose- dependent decrease in the levels of alanine aminotransferase (ALT), aspartate aminotransferase (AST), alkaline phosphatase (ALP)and bilirubin in extract treatment groups compared to group B. Therefore Carica papaya has a hepatoprotective effect and could be used as an adjunct in management of acute liver injury.