Hepatoprotective properties of Cuminum cyminum seeds powder as post-treatment for acetaminophen-induced acute hepatic injury

Background: Acetaminophen overdose can result in hepatic injury, mainly through oxidative stress. Objective: We investigated the protective effect of Cuminum cyminum (C. cyminum) seed powder after acetaminophen administration. Methods: Thirty male rats were divided into five groups (n=6): Control group, Acetaminophen (A) group, and Acetaminophen + C. cyminum 200, 400, 800 mg/kg (A+C) groups. After 24 hours of fasting, Control group received distilled water, and groups A and A+C received acetaminophen 1000 mg/kg by gavage. After six hours, groups Control and A were given distilled water, and groups A+C received C. cyminum 200, 400, 800 mg/kg by gavage. Twelve hours after the second gavage, hepatic markers of oxidative stress and serum ALT and AST were assessed. Results: In group A the activities of serum ALT and AST, concentration of hepatic malondialdehyde and hydrogen peroxide increased, and activities of peroxidase and catalase decreased significantly compared to Control group. C. cyminum administration in groups A+Cs resulted in return of these changes toward group Control. Conclusion: These results suggest that C. cyminum, due to its flavonoid and polyphenol contents, could diminish hepatic injury induced by acetaminophen.