Protective effect of the leaves of Vitex negundo against ethanol-induced cerebral oxidative stress in rats

The present study investigated the effect of the various fractions of hydromethanolic extract of the leaves of Vitex negundo (Verbenaceae) against ethanol-induced cerebral oxidative stress in rats. Cerebral oxidative stress was induced by the administration of 20% ethanol (5 ml/100gbw) for a period of 28 days. The petroleum ether (PEF), chloroform (CF), ethylacetate (EAF) and residual (RF) fractions at a dose of 200 mg/kgbw orally were simultaneously administered with ethanol for 28 days. α-tocopherol at a dose of 100 mg/kg orally was used as the standard. Administration of ethanol resulted in a significant elevation in serum biochemical parameters like aspartate transaminase (AST), alanine transaminase (ALT), alkaline phosphatase (ALP), uric acid, triglycerides and lipoprotein levels. In addition there was a significant (P<0.01) elevation in malondialdehyde (MDA) and lipid hydroperoxide (LH) levels and a significant (P