Immunological, Cytogenetic and Hepatoprotective Effect of Viola odorata Methanolic Extract on Methotrexate Induced Albino Male Mice

Abstract

Pants used in traditional medicine contain a vast array of substances that can be used to treat chronic and infectious diseases. One of these medical plant Viola odorata which a popularly known as “Banafshah” and sweet violet in Asia and Europe respectively. It is found in high altitudes of Himalyas, Europe and throughout North America. The study was designed to assess immunological (total and differential count of white blood cells), cytogenetic (micronucleus formation) and hepatoprotective activity of methanolic extract of Viola odorata by using two doses 100 and 200mg/kg. In addition, these effects were assessed after an interaction between the two doses of the plant and methtrexte drug. Results:The results of this study indicated that Viola odorata  had the ability to enhance immunity and reduced the frequency of micronucleus formation in bone marrow cells in addition to its hepatoprotective activity. Alternatively, the plant was able to counteract the damage induced by methotrexate 40 mg\kg.