An Investigation Into the Hepatoprotective Properties of Berberis asiatica, Withania somnifera, and Their Combination in Streptozotocin-Nicotinamide-Induced Type II Diabetes Mellitus in Wistar Rats.

Background:  The rising prevalence of type II diabetes mellitus (T2DM) has increased the risk of hepatic dysfunction, necessitating effective therapeutic interventions. Natural products, particularly (BA) and (WS), are known for their hepatoprotective properties.

Objectives: This study investigates the hepatoprotective effects of BA, WS, and their polyherbal combination in streptozotocin-nicotinamide-induced T2DM in Wistar rats.

Methods: Seventy-eight adult albino Wistar rats were divided into 13 groups, including normal control, disease control, and treatment groups, which received BA, WS, and a polyherbal combination (PHC) at varying doses (250, 500, and 1,000 mg/kg). Metformin and glimepiride served as standard treatments. Liver function was assessed through serum glutamic pyruvic transaminase (SGPT) and bilirubin levels, and histopathological analysis was performed.

Results:  Treatment with BA, WS, and PHC significantly reduced SGPT and bilirubin levels compared to the disease control (p < 0.001). The PHC demonstrated superior efficacy, with higher doses (1,000 mg/kg) exhibiting results comparable to standard drugs. Histopathological analysis revealed reduced hepatocellular damage in treated groups, indicating preserved hepatic architecture.

Conclusion:  BA and WS, individually and in combination, significantly attenuated liver dysfunction in diabetic rats. The synergistic effect of PHC presents a promising natural therapeutic approach for managing diabetes-induced liver damage.