<i>Datura stramonium</i> Leaf Extract Exhibits Anti‐inflammatory Activity in CCL₄‐Induced Hepatic Injury Model by Modulating Oxidative Stress Markers and iNOS/Nrf2 Expression

Abstract

DSL-EA exhibited prominent <i>in vitro</i> NO scavenging (IC₅₀: 7.625 ± 0.51 <i>μ</i>g/mL) and <i>in vivo</i> anti-inflammatory activity in paw and anal edema models. In CCl₄ model, hematological investigations revealed vasotonic effects. Liver functionality was significantly (<i>P</i> < 0.001 - 0.05) improved in DSL-EA-treated rats. The activity level of endogenous antioxidant enzymes in liver tissues was improved in a manner identical to silymarin. The extract reduced the percent concentration of oxidative stress markers in liver tissues. Furthermore, DSL-EA displayed restorative effects on histological parameters (H and E and Masson's trichrome staining). Immunohistochemistry studies showed marked decline in Nrf2 expression, while overexpression of iNOS was also observed in disease control rats. The damage was distinctly reversed by the extract.