Phytochemical Investigation and Hepatoprotective Activity of Combretum micranthum Extract in CCl4-Induced Hepatotoxicity in Rats

Liver disease, including hepatitis and cirrhosis, represents a significant disease burden in Nigeria, with toxic and infectious hepatotoxicity being frequent presentations. Combretum micranthum, locally known as kinkeliba, is used in traditional medicine across North West and North Central Nigeria for liver-related complaints. This study investigated the phytochemical composition and hepatoprotective activity of ethanol leaf extract of C. micranthum obtained from Kebbi State in a carbon tetrachloride-induced hepatotoxicity model in Wistar rats. Phytochemical analysis was conducted to quantify flavonoids, tannins, and triterpenoids. Four groups of six rats each received pre-treatment with vehicle, silymarin (100 mg/kg), or C. micranthum extract at 200 or 400 mg/kg orally for seven days, followed by CCl4 administration. Liver damage was assessed by serum alanine aminotransferase, aspartate aminotransferase, alkaline phosphatase, total bilirubin, albumin, and histopathological examination. The extract significantly reduced ALT and AST elevations compared to untreated controls at both dose levels, with 400 mg/kg producing outcomes comparable to silymarin. Histopathological examination confirmed preservation of hepatic architecture in extract-treated groups. Phytochemical analysis identified high concentrations of flavonoids and ellagitannins as likely contributors to hepatoprotective activity through antioxidant mechanisms. These findings validate the traditional use of C. micranthum for liver protection and support further isolation of active hepatoprotective constituents. Keywords: Combretum micranthum, hepatoprotective, CCl4 hepatotoxicity, flavonoids, Kebbi State.