Evaluation of the Effect of Datura Stramonium on Cadmium Induced Hepatotoxicity in Adult Male Wistar Rats

Introduction Cadmium (Cd) is a toxic heavy metal that poses significant health risks, particularly to the liver, by inducing oxidative stress, inflammation, and hepatocellular damage. Datura stramonium, a medicinal plant rich in bioactive compounds, has been traditionally known and used for its therapeutic properties. This study evaluates the hepatoprotective potential of Datura stramonium extract against cadmium-induced liver toxicity in adult male Wistar rats. The study is aimed at determining the extract’s ability to mitigate oxidative stress, inflammation, and biochemical alterations associated with Cd toxicity. Methodology Thirty adult male Wistar rats were randomly assigned into five experimental groups. The groups included a control group receiving distilled water, a cadmium-exposed group, and groups treated with varying doses of Datura stramonium extract (100 mg/kg and 200 mg/kg). Cadmium chloride (30 mg/kg) was administered intraperitoneally on specific days within a 21-day treatment period. Following the treatment period, biochemical assays was conducted, and oxidative stress parameters; superoxide dismutase (SOD) activity, malondialdehyde (MDA) levels, and Catalase activity were also assessed. Histopathological examination of liver tissues was performed to evaluate morphological changes. Results Cadmium administration resulted in significant liver damage, as evidenced in increased oxidative stress markers, and histopathological alterations. Treatment with Datura stramonium extract significantly reduced liver enzyme levels, restored antioxidant enzyme activity, and improved histopathological features in a dose-dependent manner. The highest dose of the extract (200 mg/kg) demonstrated hepatoprotective effects), which suggests it has potential as an effective natural remedy against cadmium-induced hepatotoxicity. Conclusion The findings of this study highlight the hepatoprotective potential of Datura stramonium against cadmium-induced liver injury. The extract’s antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties contribute to its protective effects by mitigating oxidative stress and restoring liver function. Keywords: Datura stramonium, cadmium toxicity, oxidative stress, hepatoprotection, liver injury, antioxidants, Wistar rats