Ameliorative Effect of Methanol Extract of Hymenocardia acida Leaves on Gentamicin-Induced Renal Toxicity in Rats

Abstract

Aim: This study evaluated the nephroprotective effect of methanol extract of Hymenocardia acida leaves in rat model of gentamicin induced renal damage. Materials and Methods: Twenty- four (24) Wistar albino rats of either sex weighing 150- 200g were divided into 4 groups of 6 animals each; Group I served as the control and received normal saline, Group II- IV received gentamicin (40 mg/kg, i.p), Groups III and IV also received 200 and 400 mg/kg body wt., p.o methanol extract of Hymenocardia acida leaves respectively for 15 days. Body weight measurement, serum urea, creatinine, electrolytes analyses and histopathological examination of kidney were carried out. Results: Gentamicin treatment caused nephrotoxicity as evidenced by marked elevation in Serum urea, creatinine, decreased sodium and chloride ions, elevated serum level of potassium ion and pathological signs such as congestion, focal areas of inflammation, tubular necrosis, and glomerular atrophy. Administration of the extract at doses of 200 and 400 mg/kg/ body wt significantly (p< 0.05) decreased Creatinine and urea levels, significantly (p< 0.05) increased sodium and chloride ion and significantly (p< 0.05)  decreased potassium ion level when compared to the gentamicin- alone- treated group. Histopathological analysis also revealed a gradual reversal of the pathological features caused by gentamicin toxicity. Conclusion: It was concluded that the extract possesses nephroprotective potential.