# Evaluation of Nutraceutical Potential of Carduus marianus : Antioxidant and Hepatoprotective Effects in Paracetamol‐Induced Hepatotoxicity and GC–MS Analysis

## TL;DR

This study shows that Carduus marianus extract protects the liver from paracetamol damage in rats by reducing oxidative stress and inflammation.

## Contribution

The study demonstrates the hepatoprotective and antioxidant efficacy of Carduus marianus in a paracetamol-induced toxicity model.

## Key findings

- Carduus marianus significantly improved liver biomarkers and reduced oxidative stress in treated rats.
- GC–MS analysis identified oleic acid as the major component of the extract.
- The extract preserved hepatic histoarchitecture and inhibited NAPQI-induced pathways.

## Abstract

This study evaluates the hepatoprotective effects of
Carduus marianus
in a paracetamol‐induced hepatotoxicity model using Wistar rats. Wistar rats were divided into six groups and treated with varying doses (100, 200, and 300 mg/kg) of
C. marianus
12× aqueous solution after hepatotoxicity induction. Serum biomarkers for liver function (ALT and AST), lipid profiles, renal indicators, oxidative stress markers, and inflammatory mediators were measured. Phytochemical screening revealed alkaloids, glycosides, carbohydrates, saponins, phenols, and flavonoids, with oleic acid as the major component. Gas chromatography–mass spectrometry (GC–MS) identified oleic acid as the predominant constituent (62.96%). Treatment significantly improved liver biomarkers, lipid profiles, and renal function (p < 0.001) across all doses, alongside notable reductions in oxidative stress markers and inflammatory mediators (p < 0.001). These results highlight the potential of
C. marianus
as a promising therapeutic agent for managing liver health.

This study evaluates the hepatoprotective potential of
Carduus marianus
aqueous extract in male Wistar rats subjected to paracetamol‐induced hepatotoxicity. Paracetamol metabolism via hepatic cytochrome P450 enzymes generates NAPQI, triggering oxidative stress, inflammation, and vascular disturbances, culminating in hepatic necrosis. Pre‐treatment with
C. marianus
for 21 days mitigated these effects by inhibiting NAPQI‐induced pathways, as evidenced by reduced oxidative and inflammatory markers and preserved hepatic histoarchitecture. These findings suggest
C. marianus
as a promising natural agent against drug‐induced liver injury.