Hepatoprotective Effects of Plants Used as Herbal Medicine in Nigeria - A Review

Abstract

Medicinal plants have long been used in the management of liver disorders due to their rich phytochemical composition. This review highlights selected plants with documented hepatoprotective potential, focusing on their bioactive constituents, experimental evidence, and mechanisms of action. Aegle marmelos, Agrimonia eupatoria, Acacia confusa, Azadirachta indica, and Aloe barbadensis contain flavonoids, alkaloids, tannins, saponins, and phenolic compounds that confer antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial and membrane-stabilizing effects. Experimental studies demonstrate their efficacy against common hepatotoxins through normalization of liver biomarkers and reduction of oxidative stress. These plants represent promising candidates for the development of safe and effective hepatoprotective therapies.