Ocimum Gratissimum Linn Worsens Streptozotocin-Induced Nephrotoxicity in Diabetic Wistar Rats

Abstract

Effects of ethanolic extract of Ocimum gratissimum leaves (O. gratissimum) on the kidneys in Streptozotocin-induced diabetic rats were studied. Thirty-six adult rats were assigned into six groups (A, B, C, D, E and F) of six rats each. Diabetes was induced with a single intraperitoneal injection of Streptozotocin. Group A (non diabetic control) and F (diabetic control) received normal saline orally, group B received a Metformin at 25 mg/kg while groups C, D and E had O. gratissimum at 400, 600 and 800 mg/kg. Body weight and fasting blood glucose levels were monitored weekly; blood levels of Creatinine (Cr) and Urea (U) were measured on day twenty eight. Animals were sacrificed and kidney sections processed for histological study. Statistical analysis was carried out using a one way ANOVA followed by a post-hoc test. Results showed significant reduction in body weight and blood glucose levels in the groups that received either metformin or O.gratissimum as well as dose dependent increase in blood urea and creatinine levels, histopathology revealed varying degrees of renal injury. The study concluded that O. gratissimum worsens diabetes induced renal injury.