Free radicals produce persistent oxidative stress in biological system and are highly reactive molecules produced as a byproduct of metabolism. A reactive free redical generated in the body reacts with non-radical molecules and results in free radical chain reaction leading to formation of new free radicals. If the defense mechanism of body fails to combat them or they are not properly utilized in the body -these silent killers pose a threat by injuring tissues, their proteins and fat contents. Lipids in the cell membrane undergo degradation to form hydroperoxides((1, 2, 3).) Polyunsaturated fatty acids, PUFA, are especially liable to lipid peroxidation. Lipid hydroperoxids decompose to form a variety of products including malondialdehyde (MDA) which is used as an indicator of oxidative damage of cells and tissues((4).)The present investigations involve the study of oxidative stress in the bile juice from the patients of cholecystitis/cholelithiasis with choledocholithiasis treated by cholecystectomy with choledochotomy (CBD exploration) with T-tube drainage. Results of malondialdehyde status in the bile juice of these patients pre-operatively and following polyherbal formulation therapy from 3(rd) to 10(th) post operative day are discussed.
Keywords: Bile; MDA status; Oxidative stress; Polyherbal drug therapy.