Hepatoprotective properties and acute toxicity of Lagotis korolkowii (Regel & Schmalh.) Maxim.

Introduction. The genus Lagotis (Plantaginaceae) comprises species traditionally used for treating liver disorders. Lagotis korolkowii (Regel & Schmalh.) Maxim., despite its potential, remains phytochemically and pharmacologically underexplored, particularly regarding its safety and hepatoprotective properties.

Aim. This study aimed to evaluate the acute oral toxicity and hepatoprotective efficacy of an extract from Lagotis korolkowii (Regel & Schmalh.) Maxim. in experimental models.

Materials and methods. Acute toxicity was assessed in albino mice following GOST 32644-2014 and Stefanov's guidelines, administering single oral doses up to 10,000 mg/kg. Hepatoprotective activity was investigated in male albino rats with paracetamol-induced acute hepatitis (1000 mg/kg for 2 days). Treatment groups received the plant extract orally at doses of 50, 100, and 200 mg/kg for 7 consecutive days post-intoxication. Evaluations included observation of general condition, mortality, hematological analysis (complete blood count), and blood biochemical parameters (ALT, AST, bilirubin, total protein, etc.).

Results and discussion. The median lethal dose (LD₅₀) of Lagotis korolkowii (Regel & Schmalh.) Maxim. extract exceeded 10,000 mg/kg, classifying it as practically non-toxic (Class V). In the hepatotoxicity model, the extract dose-dependently ameliorated paracetamol-induced alterations. The 50 mg/kg dose demonstrated the highest activity, significantly reducing plasma ALT (by 4 %), AST (by 27 %), and direct bilirubin (by 39 %) levels while increasing total protein (by 17 %) compared to the intoxicated control group. Positive normalization of erythrocyte, hemoglobin, and leukocyte counts was also observed.

Conclusion. Lagotis korolkowii (Regel & Schmalh.) Maxim. extract possesses a high safety profile and exhibits significant, dose-dependent hepatoprotective effects against paracetamol-induced liver damage, with the 50 mg/kg dose showing optimal efficacy. These findings support its potential as a source for developing safe and effective hepatoprotective phytomedicines.

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