Nephroprotective and diuretic effect of Alternanthera brasiliana (L.) Kuntze leaf extract; acute and sub-acute toxicity assessment

Ethnopharmacological relevance

Alternanthera brasiliana (L.) Kuntze of the family Amaranthaceae has been extensively used in traditional medicinal practices in Brazil and India for its reputed efficacy in promoting diuresis, as well as treating wounds, inflammation, postnatal symptoms, diarrhea, and cough. Its selection for this study was driven not only by its ethnomedicinal significance but also by its rich phytochemical composition, including bioactive compounds such as flavonoids, saponins, and alkaloids, which are known to exhibit nephroprotective and diuretic effects. Additionally, while many species from the Amaranthaceae family have demonstrated similar therapeutic properties, A. brasiliana remains underexplored in this context. Therefore, this research aimed to scientifically evaluate its potential nephroprotective and diuretic activities, providing a pharmacological basis for its traditional uses.

Aim of study

This experiment was designed to determine nephroprotective effect against cisplatin-induced kidney injury and diuretic effect of Alternanthera brasiliana (L.) in rats. This study also aimed to evaluate the toxicity of plant's extract by performing acute and sub-acute toxicity trials.

Material and methods

In current study, the nephroprotective effect of aqueous-ethanol extract of A. brasiliana was evaluated after induction of kidney injury with cisplatin. Extract was given in three doses as 75 mg/kg, 150 mg/kg and 300 mg/kg. A diuretic activity was also performed by comparing results with control and standard (furosemide). Extract was given in three doses as 75 mg/kg, 150 mg/kg and 300 mg/kg. A 14 day trial for acute toxicity assessment was performed at doses 2000 mg/kg and 3000 mg/kg, whereas a 28 day trial for sub-acute toxicity assessment was performed at doses 250 mg/kg, 500 mg/kg and 1000 mg/kg. The biological active ingredients were identified and determined using HPLC technique.

Results

The aqueous-ethanol extract of A. brasiliana (ABAE) safeguarded the rats from toxic effects of cisplatin. This extract also enhanced urine output. The protective effect of ABAE increased with increasing dose and produced maximum nephroprotective effect and diuresis at a dose 300 mg/kg. The outcomes from acute toxicity trials suggested that LD₅₀ lied beyond 3000 mg/kg, and no antagonizing effects occurred in sub-acute toxicity trials at doses 250 mg/kg, 500 mg/kg and 1000 mg/kg. ABAE posed no toxicities on kidney, liver, and heart tissues as evident from histopathological, hematological, and serum biochemical analysis. HPLC-DAD analysis of ABAE indicated the presence of betanin, kaempherol, gallic acid, p-coumaric acid and oxalic acid.

Conclusions

These results demonstrate an abundant supply of bioactive chemicals found in A. brasiliana (L.) extracts, which should be taken into account to improve renal functions with fewer negative effects.