Antihepatotoxic properties of picroliv: an active fraction from rhizomes of Picrorhiza kurrooa.

The hepatoprotective activity of picroliv, the irridoid glycoside mixture from Picrorhiza kurrooa, was determined in adult male albino rats. Pretreatment with picroliv prevented the hepatotoxic effects of paracetamol and galactosamine as evidenced by various biochemical and histopathological observations. Maximum hepatoprotective effect was observed with daily oral doses of 6 and 12 mg/kg for 7 or 8 days. The antihepatotoxic action of picroliv seems likely due to an alteration in the biotransformation of the toxic substances resulting in decreased formation of reactive metabolites.