The Protective Effect of Aqueous Extract of the Calyx of <i>Hibiscus sabdariffa</i> Roselle on the Kidneys of Salt-Loaded Rats

Abstract

The biochemical and histopathological effects of aqueous extract of Hisbiscus, sabdariffa (Roselle) calyx were investigated in salt-loaded albino rats. Salt-loading resulted in an increase (15.0 ± 2.45%) in body weight, while the administration of the extract caused a decrease in body weight (13.2 ± 2.3%, 14.41 ± 0.55%). Salt-loading resulted in signficantly higher serum Na⁺, HCO^-₃, creatinine and urea levels and significantly lower (P < 0.05) serum K⁺ levels. Treatment with the plant extract caused significantly lower (P < 0.05) serum levels of Na⁺, HCO^-₃, creatinine and urea, while serum K+ was significantly increased (P<0.05). Histopathological results revealed tubular necrosis in the kidney cells of salt-loaded group only, while other groups were normal. It was concluded that the plant extract was nephroprotective.

Key words: Hibiscus sabdariffa, salt-loading, urea, creatinine, electrolytes

Journal of Medical Laboratory Sciences Vol.12(1) 2003: 46-52