Hepatoprotective properties of fractions from meadowsweet extract during experimental toxic hepatitis.

Fractions of the extract from meadowsweet aerial parts in 70% ethanol exhibited hepatoprotective properties during CCl4-induced toxic hepatitis. This extract produced a normalizing effect on activity of enzymes, markers of cytolysis, lipid peroxidation, and antioxidant defense system in liver cells. Fractionation of the extract was accompanied by dissociation of the effect. These changes reflect specific action of a complex of bioactive substances. The ethyl acetate and chloroform fractions from this extract were most potent. The effectiveness of these fractions by several parameters surpassed that of Carsil.