Toxicological Status of the Hydroethanolic Extract of <i>Piliostigma thonningii</i> Leaves in Female Wistar Rats

Abstract

This study aims to evaluate the toxicological impact of Piliostigma thonningii leaves on liver and renal function in rats and the plant  extract was screened for heavy metals. Rats were divided into four groups, comprising five animals each, with the control group receiving distilled water orally and the other groups receiving 50, 100, and 200 mg/kg doses of the plant extract, orally, for seven days. On the  eighth day, animals were sacrificed, and liver and kidney function parameters were assessed. Heavy metal screening revealed the  absence of chromium and nickel, while trace amounts of lead and cadmium were detected. The liver bodyweight ratio significantly  increased (p<0.05) in rats treated with the plant extract at 100 and 200 mg/kg body weight. Liver functioning tests showed no significant  (p>0.05) changes in total protein and albumin levels, suggesting no major adverse effects on protein metabolism or liver function.  However, the significant (p<0.05) changes in Aspartate aminotransferase (AST), alanine aminotransferase (ALT), and Alkaline  phosphatase (ALP) may be detrimental. Renal function tests revealed some variations, with significant (p<0.05) alterations in uric acid,  creatinine, and urea levels which may affect renal function. The significant (p<0.05) decrease in phosphate ion and potassium ion levels  further suggested potential side effects on renal functions.