Hepatoprotective effect and gc-ms analysis of traditionally used boswellia sacra oleo gum resin (Frankincense) extract in rats

Abstract

Background: The water extract of oleo-gum-resin of Boswellia sacra Fleuckiger (Burseraceae) is used in the treatment of liver problems in the Middle East and Arab-African countries. The present study was carried out to evaluate its effect on liver injury induced by carbon tetrachloride in acute and chronic liver injury models. Materials and Methods: The Boswellia sacra extract was administered at doses of 2 ml/kg and 5 ml/kg. Silymarin, a known hepato-protective agent was used as standard. The extract was subjected to GC-MS analysis to determine the presence of various phyto-constituents. Results: The Boswellia sacra extract at tested doses of 2 ml/kg and 5 ml/kg significantly reduced the elevated serum levels of biomarkers in liver damage. The hepatoprotective effect was supported by changes in histopathology. The GC-MS analysis of the extract revealed the presence of several phyto-constituents that included menthol, 3-cyclohexen-1-ol and octanoic acid. Conclusion: The water extract oleo-gum-resin of Boswellia sacra possesses hepatoprotective activity, as claimed by traditional healers within the Middle East and Arab-African countries.