Protective Effects of Herbal Agents Against Hepatorenal Toxicity: A Review

Abstract

Hepatorenal toxicity, characterised by damage to the liver and kidneys due to toxins, chemicals or drugs, poses a significant threat to human health. The intricate metabolic and pathophysiological connection between these vital organs underscores the urgency of effective therapeutic strategies. This article reviews various herbal interventions with their potential hepatorenal protective effects. The discussion encompasses diverse plants, each possessing unique bioactive compounds and mechanisms of action in hepatorenal toxicity. This article focuses on 14 entities including Rheum turkestanicum, Curcuma longa, Olea europaea, Euryops arabicus, Taraxacum syriacum, Andrographis paniculata, Grape seed oil, Bridelia ferruginea, Cynara scolymus, Phyllanthus amarus, Schisandra chinensis, Garcinia kola Heckle, Cyperus laevigatus and Alchemilla vulgaris. These are examined for their potential to mitigate hepatorenal toxicity. Antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activities contribute to the hepatorenal protective effects of these plants. This article also explores the combination of N-Acetyl Cysteine (NAC) with plants such as Lycopene, Curcumin and Taurine, emphasising synergistic effects in ameliorating toxic insults to the liver and kidneys. Therefore, these findings underscore the potential of plant-based interventions as promising candidates for therapeutic strategies against hepatorenal toxicity, offering a holistic approach by mitigating oxidative stress and inflammatory responses in these vital organs.