Histological Evaluation of the Effects of Aqueous Stem Bark Extract of Carica papaya on Carbon Tetrachloride (CCl4) Induced Liver Injury in Albino Rats

Liver injury is a significant health concern arising from various etiologies, including toxins, infections, alcohol abuse, and metabolic disorders. Carica papaya, a tropical plant known for its nutritional and pharmacological properties, has shown promise in mitigating liver damage. This study investigated the hepatoprotective potential of aqueous stem bark extract of Carica papaya against carbon tetrachloride (CCl₄)-induced liver injury in albino rats. Eighteen male albino rats were randomly allocated into six groups (n=3). Group 1 received no treatment (normal control), Group 2 was administered CCl₄ (negative control), and Group 3 received CCl₄ plus Livolin Forte (positive control). Groups 4–6 received CCl₄ along with C. papaya extract at 50, 100, and 150 mg/kg body weight, respectively. After 14 days, serum levels of alanine aminotransferase (ALT), aspartate aminotransferase (AST), and alkaline phosphatase (ALP) were measured. Liver tissues were also processed and stained for hematoxylin and Eosin, Masson’s Trichrome, and Gordon and Sweets techniques for histological examination. Results demonstrated a significant reduction (p ≤ 0.05) in liver enzyme levels in extract-treated groups compared to the negative control. Histopathological analysis revealed improvements in hepatic architecture in treated groups. These findings suggest that Carica papaya stem bark extract possesses hepatoprotective properties and may be effective in managing liver injuries caused by toxicants.