Evaluation of the Protective Effects of Salvia officinalis Extract Against Copper Sulfate-Induced Toxicity in Mice Using a Multi-Organ Approach

The study examined the protective effects of an aqueous extract of Salvia officinalis (Sage) in mice exposed to copper sulfate (CuSO₄). Ten days of daily administration of 6 mg/kg CuSO₄ were found to induce oxidative stress and neurotoxicity in the liver, brain, and kidney of mice. In fact, the activities of acetylcholinesterase (AChE), hydrogen peroxide (H₂O₂), and superoxide dismutase (SOD) decreased in the organs of mice. Furthermore, it was shown that CuSO₄ caused a drop in cholesterol and triglyceride levels. Additionally, there was a general decrease in organ growth and body weight. Improvements in the antioxidant defense of the kidney and brain were observed to be promoted by the first concentration of 0.425 g/L (E1) of S. officinalis. In contrast, the second concentration of 1.275 g/L (E2) showed a greater improvement in SOD and AChE activities in liver. Sage extract (0.425 g/L) was able to raise the levels of AST, ALAT, and LDH in plasma. Additionally, it was noted that this concentration (E1) was beneficial for the growth of the three investigated organs as well as for preventing weight loss.