investigating the effects of thyme, albendazole & silymarin on the treatment of hydatid cysts in a laboratory mouse model

Hydatid cyst is a common parasitic disease caused by echinococcus granulosus, and its treatment remains challenging. this study examines the effects of thyme and silymarin in combination with albendazole on the treatment of hydatid cysts in a laboratory mouse model. for the experiment, 70 laboratory mice were infected with the parasite and divided into 10 groups 7 in each. each group received different treatments, including thyme, albendazole and silymarin and their combinations. at the end of the treatment period, the mice were dissected, and several factors, including the weight of the cysts, the number of healthy and necrotic cysts, and the ratio of cyst weight to body weight, were evaluated. the results showed that albendazole alone and in combination with thyme significantly reduced the number and weight of the cysts. additionally, the combination of albendazole and silymarin showed positive effects, but the triple combination of albendazole, thyme, and silymarin did not offer additional benefits compared to dual combinations. thyme alone, and in combination with albendazole, significantly reduced the cyst weight and the number of necrotic cysts. this study demonstrates that herbal compounds can be effective as a complementary method in treating hydatid cysts, potentially reducing the need for chemical drugs.