Protective Effect of Salep on Liver

BACKGROUND Salep is used for various purposes in food industries and traditional medicine. Therefore, evaluation of its effect on the liver seems to be necessary. OBJECTIVES The aim of this study was to assess salep effect on liver. MATERIALS AND METHODS In this experimental study, various concentrations of Salep were intraperitoneally administered to five groups of Wistar rats (control, placebo and 20, 40 and 80 mg/kg salep). After one month, liver enzymes and liver tissue were evaluated and compared between different groups. RESULTS Significant decreased level of liver enzymes, MDA (Malondialdehyde) and TOC (Total Oxidation Capacity) were found in various concentrations of salep administration. On the other hand, a significant increase was found in TAC (Total Antioxidant Capacity) level with various doses of salep. CONCLUSIONS Elevated level of total protein and albumin and decreased level of liver enzyme by salep extract were found in this study. Therefore, this plant may be a useful medicine for patients with liver diseases.