In the study, researchers observed the effect of gardenia aqueous extract on male Wistar rats.
The medicinal properties of gardenias
Gardenias, which are called Zhizi in traditional Chinese medicine (TCM), are often used to treat the liver disease called cholestasis. The plant is part of the Rubiaceae family and practitioners administer Zhizi to "dispel dampness and heat via the urine to execute its choleretic effects."
However, the potential molecular mechanism of the plant has yet to be verified via scientific studies.
For the study, scientists tested the effect of different doses of gardenia aqueous extract powder on the urinary excretion of bile acids in rats. Bile acids are crucial for digestion and the absorption of fats and fat-soluble vitamins in the small intestine.
The researchers also set out to determine the potential mechanism of the plant extract via renal bile acid efflux transporters multidrug resistance-associated protein 2 (Mrp2) and Mrp4 in normal rats. MRP2, which is "abundantly expressed in the bile canalicular membranes of the hepatocyte," is necessary for bile formation.
The rats were given either 0.3 milligrams of the extract for each kilogram of their body weight daily or 0.9 g/kg/d for two weeks. The researchers then evaluated the following factors:
- Body weight
- Serum aminotransferase
- Total bile acid concentrations in the liver, bile, serum, kidney, and urine
- One-hour bile flow
- 12-hour urinary volume
- Biliary and urinary excretion amount of total bile acids
- Protein expression of major renal BAs efflux transporter Mrp2 and Mrp4
The test results showed that high doses of gardenia aqueous extract powder may help reduce hepatic total bile acid concentration in the rats.
The researchers explained that even though the bile flow and biliary excretion of the rats weren't significantly changed, the subjects' urinary excretion of bile acids increased due to the plant extract. Compared to the control group of rats, the gardenia extract was also able to up-regulate renal Mrp2 expression at least two- or three-fold. (Related: Science proves these seven herbs provide powerful protection against liver cancer and liver damage of all kinds.)
The study findings confirmed that gardenias have a cholagocic effect, or that they can promote the discharge of bile. The plant can potentially be used to develop a natural and effective remedy for liver diseases such as cholestasis.
What is cholestasis?
Cholestasis is a liver disease that occurs when the flow of bile from the liver is reduced or blocked.
The liver produces bile, a fluid that is necessary for the proper digestion of food, especially fats. When bile flow is decreased, the body may experience a bilirubin buildup. Bilirubin is a pigment produced by the liver and it is excreted from the body via bile.
There are two types of cholestasis: intrahepatic cholestasis and extrahepatic cholestasis.
Intrahepatic cholestasis originates within the liver. It may be caused by disease, drug use, genetic abnormalities, hormonal effects on bile flow, or infections. Pregnancy is also a risk factor for intrahepatic cholestasis.
Meanwhile, extrahepatic cholestasis is caused by a physical barrier to the bile ducts. These blockages include things such as cysts, gallstones, or tumors that restrict the flow of bile.
Both intrahepatic and extrahepatic cholestasis cause the same symptoms:
- Abdominal pain
- Dark-colored urine
- Excessive itching
- Fatigue
- Jaundice (the yellowing of the skin and the whites of the eyes)
- Light-colored stool
- Nausea
However, not everyone with cholestasis may experience these symptoms, and adults with chronic cholestasis are usually symptom-free.
Read more articles about gardenias and other medicinal plants that can cure liver disease at Healing.news.
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