Impact of Traditional Chinese Medicine Antioxidants on Oxidative Stress and Drug-Induced Liver Injury: A Review

The liver serves as a crucial organ for detoxification and exhibits a robust regenerative capacity. The improper administration of pharmaceuticals frequently results in drug-induced liver injury (DILI), a condition closely associated with the overproduction of reactive oxygen species (ROS). In addressing DILI, Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) often employs plant-based remedies, which have demonstrated favorable therapeutic outcomes. These plant-based treatments are typically rich in antioxidants capable of neutralizing ROS. However, there is a notable lack of comprehensive reviews that synthesize the therapeutic effects of antioxidants derived from medicinal plants on DILI. The present review starts by exploring ROS generation and clearance in human health, then outlines DILI characteristics and treatments, emphasizing its strong link to oxidative stress. Furthermore, we discuss the properties and classification of antioxidants found in plant-based pharmaceuticals, with a particular emphasis on the synergistic effects of these antioxidants and their mechanisms for repairing DILI. Finally, we provide a summary of commonly utilized medicinal plants from TCM for the treatment of DILI. In conclusion, this article explores the future prospects and potential solutions for treating DILI using antioxidants found in plant-based drugs derived from TCM. The objective of this review is to examine the role of antioxidants in TCM and their impact on DILI.