Exploration of Aqueous Phyllanthus amarus Leaf Extract as a Protective Agent in Mercury Chloride-Exposed Wistar Rats: A Neurobehavioural Study

Mercury (Hg) exposure is known to damage vital components of the central nervous system primarily through oxidative stress. Although Phyllanthus amarus (PA) reported be rich in antioxidants, there a dearth relevant research evidence show its protective activity against Mercuric chloride (HgCl2)-induced neurotoxicity. Accordingly, this study was designed investigate possible aqueous leaf extract (APALE) HgCl2-exposed rats using standard neurobehavioral assessments. Thirty adult Wistar were randomized into six groups five each viz: A: Control, distilled water; B: HgCl2 (4 mg/kg body wt.); C: APALE (200 wt.) + mg/kg); D: (400 E: F: wt.). All administrations an orogastric tube for 14 days. Thereafter, tests (open field, novel object and Y-maze) done experimental sacrificed by cervical dislocation. Body, brain cerebellar weights examined across all groups. significantly (p<0.0.05) decreased whole weight Similarly, reduction observed. Significant alterations locomotion, discrimination index cognition/memory, induced HgCl2, observed However, protection deleterious effects following pretreatment with APALE. Conclusively, these findings that demonstrated potent HgCl2-induced neurotoxicity may useful management Hg toxicity other related disorders.