Sodium Nitrite-Induced Hepatotoxicity in Rabbits: Modulatory Effects of Olive Leaf Extract

This study evaluated the protective effects of aqueous olive leaf extract (OLE) against sodium nitrite (NaNO₂)-induced hepatotoxicity in male rabbits. Twenty adult rabbits were divided into four groups (n=5/group): control, OLE-only (2 mL orally), NaNO₂-only (0.4% subcutaneously), and NaNO₂ + OLE. Treatments were administered daily for 20 days. Blood samples were analyzed for liver enzymes and hematological parameters. NaNO₂ significantly increased (P < 0.01) alanine aminotransferase (ALT) and aspartate aminotransferase (AST) compared to controls, indicating liver damage. However, OLE co-administration significantly reduced ALT (P < 0.01) and AST (P < 0.001) versus the NaNO₂ group. Hematologically, NaNO₂ elevated hemoglobin (Hb) (P < 0.01) and platelets (PLT) (P < 0.001), while OLE supplementation significantly lowered both (P < 0.01). White blood cells (WBCs) decreased with NaNO₂ but increased (P < 0.01) in the NaNO₂ + OLE group. No significant changes occurred in red blood cells (RBCs) across groups.

In conclusion, OLE mitigated NaNO₂-induced hepatotoxicity by normalizing liver enzymes and modulating hematological disturbances, suggesting its potential as a protective agent against chemical-induced liver injury.