Hepatoprotective Effects of Trigonella foenum-graecum Seed Extract Against Streptozotocin-Induced Diabetic Liver Damage in Albino Rats

Abstract

Diabetes mellitus is a metabolic disorder that causes severe liver dysfunction due to oxidative stress and abnormal glucose metabolism. The present study aimed to evaluate the protective effect of Trigonella frenum-graecum (fenugreek) seed extracts prepared using ethanol, methanol, and acetone on liver damage induced by streptozotocin (STZ) in albino rats. Although many synthetic antidiabetic drugs are available, their long-term use leads to side effects, highlighting the need for safer herbal alternatives — this forms the research gap of the present study. Diabetes was induced in rats by STZ (50 mg/kg i.e.), and the animals were treated orally with different solvent extracts of fenugreek seeds for 24 days. The parameters studied included blood glucose, liver function markers (ALT, AST, ALP, and bilirubin), and oxidative stress indicators (MDA, SOD, CAT, and GSH). Treatment with fenugreek extracts significantly reduced blood glucose and liver enzyme levels while improving antioxidant status, with the ethanolic extract showing the most pronounced effect. Histopathological examination confirmed restoration of normal liver architecture. The study concludes that fenugreek seed extract possesses hepatoprotective and antidiabetic potential. Prospects include isolation of active compounds, dose optimization, and molecular studies to understand the mechanism of action