Hepato-Renal Effects of Graded Doses of Pyrenacantha staudtii Ethanolic Leaf Extract in Male Albino Wistar Rats

The liver and kidneys play essential roles in detoxification, metabolism, and waste elimination, and their dysfunction can arise from infections, metabolic disorders, or exposure to toxic compounds. This study evaluated the hepato-renal effects of ethanolic leaf extract of Pyrenacantha staudtii using an albino Wistar rat model. Twenty male rats were assigned into four groups, with three experimental groups receiving 100, 200, or 400 mg/kg body weight of the extract intraperitoneally for 21 days, while the control group received distilled water. Phytochemical screening revealed the presence of alkaloids, phlobatannins, cardiac glycosides, flavonoids, and anthraquinones. Serum analysis showed a dose-dependent increase in AST and ALT levels, with significant elevations observed in the 400 mg/kg and 200 mg/kg groups, respectively. Creatinine levels increased significantly at the highest dose, while serum urea and bilirubin remained statistically unchanged. Potassium levels peaked significantly at 200 mg/kg, while sodium exhibited a nonsignificant downward trend. No gross pathological abnormalities were observed. These findings suggest that P. staudtii ethanolic leaf extract has dose-dependent biochemical effects on hepatic and renal function, with higher doses potentially inducing nephrotoxicity. The data provide a basis for further investigation into the therapeutic window, active phytoconstituents, and long-term safety profile of P. staudtii in drug development or nutraceutical applications.