NEPHROTOXIC EFFECTS OF HIBISCUS SABDARIFFA CALYX IN RATS

Abstract

SUMMARY The potential of Hibiscus sabdariffa (HS) calyx extract to induce nephrotoxicty in rats was evaluated in the present study. HS calyx extract was given at dose levels of 1.15; 2.3; 4.6g/kg for 12 weeks. Control animals received an equivalent volume of water. Animals were evaluated for body weight, appearance, food and fluid consumption. Significant (p<0.05) reduction in food and fluid consumption were observed in the treated groups compared to the control. The animals were sacrificed under chloroform anaesthesia. Electrolytes studies showed significant (p<0.05) decrease in serum potassium, sodium, chloride, and bicarbonate levels with significance (P<0.05) increase in serum urea and creatinine levels. A significant (P<0.05) decrease in body weight, and weight of the kidneys was also seen. The major histopathological change observed in the HS treated animals was tubular necrosis with areas of degeneration. Results are indicative of nephrotoxicity1.