Ehimigbai ARO and Ikponmwen-Ugiagbe OI

The kidneys play a crucial role in waste filtration and maintaining homeostasis but are susceptible to dietary compounds, including bioactive substances in Manihot esculentai leaves. These leaves, although traditionally utilized, contain cyanogenic glycosides that may impact renal health. This study assessed the safety of aqueous extracts of M. esculenta on the kidneys of adult Wistar rats. Twenty-five rats were divided into five groups: a control group and four treatment groups receiving varying doses (100, 500, 1000, and 1500 mg/kg) for 28 days via an orogastric tube. Post-treatment assessments included oxidative stress markers, kidney function tests, and histological evaluations. The results indicated no significant alterations in malondialdehyde, glutathione, superoxide dismutase, and catalase levels, suggesting that the extract did not cause oxidative stress. Furthermore, serum urea and creatinine levels remained unchanged, indicating no renal impairment. Histological analysis showed preserved kidney architecture across all doses, suggesting that Manihot esculentai extract is safe for kidney health at the administered doses.

DOI: 10.22271/phyto.2025.v14.i1a.15213

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