Effect of Purple Sweet Potato (Ipomoea batatas L.) Leaf Extract on AST and ALT Enzyme in CCl4-Induced Rats

Abstract

This study investigates the effect of sweet potato leaf extract on AST and ALT enzyme levels in rats with liver damage induced by CCl4 (carbon tetrachloride). Liver damage, often caused by toxins like CCl4, is a significant health concern, and AST and ALT are key biomarkers used to assess liver function. Sweet potato leaves, known for their antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, may offer therapeutic benefits for liver protection. This study aims to evaluate the potential of sweet potato leaf extract in mitigating liver damage by examining its effect on liver enzymes in CCl4-induced rats. Twenty-four male Wistar rats were divided into six groups. The normal control group received no treatment, the positive control group was treated with silymarin (50 mg/kg body weight orally per day), and the negative control group received CCl4 (1 mL/kg body weight intraperitoneally twice a week) to induce liver damage. The experimental groups received sweet potato leaf extract at doses of 250 mg/kg, 500 mg/kg, and 750 mg/kg body weight orally. All treatments were administered daily for three weeks. The CCl4-induced group showed significantly higher AST and ALT levels compared to the normal control group. However, rats treated with sweet potato leaf extract demonstrated a significant reduction in both enzyme levels, with the highest dose showing the most improvement in liver function. Statistical analysis confirmed that the extract had a dose-dependent effect. Sweet potato leaf extract has a hepatoprotective effect, potentially reducing AST and ALT levels in rats with CCl4-induced liver damage. This study supports its potential as a natural remedy for liver protection, warranting further research for clinical applications.