21 DAYS EFFECTS OF ETHANOL ROOT EXTRACT OF Moringa oleifera Lam. ON KIDNEY AND LIVER FUNCTIONS IN WISTAR RATS

Oghama Emmanuel OSARUMEN; Timothy ODARO; Gabriel Ogunma BENJAMIN

doi:10.71148/exwsfh93

Authors

Oghama Emmanuel OSARUMEN Rubber Research Institute of Nigeria, Off Km 19, Benin Sapele High Way, Iyanomo, P.M.B. 1049, Benin City, Edo State, Nigeria Author
Timothy ODARO Department of Plant Biology and Biotechnology, Faculty of Life Sciences, University of Benin, PMB 1154, Benin City, Nigeria Author
Gabriel Ogunma BENJAMIN Department of Science Laboratory Technology, Faculty of Life Sciences, University of Benin, PMB 1154, Benin City, Nigeria Author

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.71148/exwsfh93

Keywords:

Moringa oleifera, ethanol root extract, Wistar rats, liver, kidney

Abstract

Moringa oleifera Lam. has been widely used in traditional medicine to manage a variety of ailments. Despite its reported medicinal benefits, concerns remain regarding its potential toxicity when used excessively or improperly. This study evaluated the subacute effects of ethanol root extract of M. oleifera (EREMO) on liver and kidney function in Wistar rats over a 21-day period.

A total of 600 g of powdered M. oleifera root was extracted using 99% ethanol. Sixteen adult Wistar rats were randomly divided into four groups (n = 4). Group I received distilled water (control), while Groups II, III, and IV were administered 150 mg/kg, 300 mg/kg, and 600 mg/kg of EREMO, respectively, via oral gavage for 21 days. Blood samples were collected after the experimental period for biochemical analyses.

Results showed no statistically significant differences (P > 0.05) in serum electrolyte concentrations (Na⁺, K⁺, Cl⁻, HCO₃⁻), urea, or creatinine levels among treated groups compared to the control. Similarly, liver enzyme activities (ALP, AST, ALT) and total and conjugated bilirubin levels did not differ significantly between control and treatment groups.

These findings indicate that EREMO did not exert nephrotoxic or hepatotoxic effects under the tested conditions. The outcomes support previous biosafety reports regarding M. oleifera extracts and suggest that the ethanol root extract is well-tolerated at doses up to 600 mg/kg over a 21-day period. Further studies are recommended to evaluate long-term safety and explore its therapeutic potential.

Keywords: Moringa oleifera; 21 days effects; ethanol root extract; Wistar rats; liver; kidney.

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