Abstract:
Aim/Introduction: plant has been the primary and initial source of drug development. Plant has been used for medicinal purposes long before prehistoric period. The aim of this study is to evaluate the effect of Pterocarpus santalinus on rat's kidney over a period of 28 days. Method: A total of 24 rats of either sex were selected. Group 1 received distilled water (10 ml/kg), while group 2, 3 and 4 received Pterocarpus santalinus 100, 200 and 400 mg/kg respectively. Animals were kept in standard cages and given access to the extract, water and food orally for 28 days, after which they were weighed and sacrificed. Blood was collected by cardiac puncture and taken immediately for analysis. The histological effect of the plant on the kidney was also studied. Result: There was slightly Significant (P<0.05) decrease in RBC, HGB, MCV, while there was no change in the level of neutrophiles, basophiles, eosinophiles and platelets. Pterocarpus santalinus, slightly significantly (p<0.05) increased Na level at 300 mg/kg when compared to the control while other parameter (K, CL and Urea levels) remained relatively unchanged. Histological features agree with haematological parameter. Conclusion: The result of the study showed that the Pterocarpus santalinus has little to no toxicity potential on the kidney of rats, indicating that it may be safe for human consumption
