Hydroethanolic Extracts of Ficus pumila Linn. Is Protective against Gentamicin-Induced Kidney Damage in Rats

Abstract

Ficus pumila Linn. has been reported to be rich in phenols, hepatoprotective and antiproliferative on leukemic cancer cells. The aim of this study was to evaluate the nephroprotective effect of hydroethanolic leaves extracts of F. pumila on gentamicin-induced kidney damage in rats. Twenty-seven female Wistar albino rats were divided into 9 groups (n=3). Group 1 being normal; group 2 was the gentamicin (GM) induced only (80 mg/kg b/w ip for 5 days); groups 3, 4, & 5 rats were treated with gentamicin (80mg/kg b/w ip for 5 days) and F. pumila extract at 100, 250, and 500 mg/kg b/w orally respectively; groups 6, 7 & 8 rats received the extract only (100, 250, and 500 mg/kg b/w orally) respectively and group 9 being gentamicin and silymarin (100 mg/kg b/w orally) for 21 days. Blood samples were taken 24 hrs after the experimented period and biochemical and haematological parameters were analyzed. GM nephrotoxicity was characterized by significantly increased levels of serum creatinine, urea, sodium, potassium and WBC, while reduced RBC, HGB, MCH and MCV levels compared with normal group. Rats treated with gentamicin and the extract showed a significant reduction in the levels of these markers. The results suggest that hydro-ethanolic extract of Ficus pumila leaves protect against gentamicin-induced nephrotoxicity in female Wistar albino rats.