DOI: https://doi.org/10.36347/sajb.2025.v13i03.004

Pages: 327-334

Myocardial infarction (MI) continues to be a predominant cause of mortality globally and is characterized by restricted therapeutic alternatives and considerable adverse effects linked to traditional treatments. This study assessed the cardioprotective properties of Justicia adhatoda leaf extract against isoproterenol-induced myocardial infarction in rats at GC, University Faisalabad. A total of 32 albino Wistar rats were randomly allocated into four groups, with one group designated as the control and the remaining groups administered Justicia adhatoda leaf extract (400 mg/kg) or metoprolol (10 mg/kg) for six days following myocardial infarction induction. This study assessed hematological parameters, liver enzyme concentrations, oxidative stress indicators, inflammatory cytokines, and apoptotic gene expression. Statistical analysis was conducted using ANOVA, with the results expressed as the mean ± standard error of the mean (SEM). The findings indicated that herbal treatment markedly elevated RBC and WBC counts, diminished liver enzyme levels, and augmented total antioxidant capacity (TAC) while lowering total oxidant status (TOS). Moreover, gene expression analysis demonstrated a significant decrease in the therapy groups' levels of proinflammatory cytokines (IL-6 and IL-10) and apoptotic markers (BAX). Histopathological analysis verified a decrease in myocardial damage, signifying the preventive effect of Justicia adhatoda against myocardial infarction-induced harm. These findings indicate that Justicia adhatoda leaf extract may serve as an effective natural option for preventing and managing myocardial infarction, providing a promising adjunct to conventional therapies. Additional investigations are required to examine fundamental molecular pathways and assess their therapeutic efficacy in human clinical trials.