Nephroprotective Potential of Aqueous Leaf Extract of Sphenocentrum Jollyanum against Cadmium Chloride-Induced Renal Toxicity on Adult Wistar Rats

Cadmium, a toxic and carcinogenic heavy metal, has been widely studied for its adverse effects on biological systems. The kidneys are particularly vulnerable, with cadmium exposure leading to tubular damage, reduced glomerular function, and early proteinuria. Hence, the objective of this paper was to evaluate the nephroprotective potential of the aqueous leaf extract of Sphenocentrum jollyanum against cadmium chloride-induced renal toxicity in adult Wistar rat susing appropriate standard procedures. Treatments lasted for 28 days. Cadmium chloride exposure resulted in significant alterations in body and kidney weights, along with histological signs of renal damage, including tubular necrosis, interstitial congestion, vasodilation, and inflammatory cell infiltration. Co-administration of S. jollyanum extract, particularly at 150 mg/kg, partially ameliorated these effects, suggesting a protective role against cadmium-induced nephrotoxicity. This study demonstrates the therapeutic potential of Sphenocentrum jollyanum in mitigating cadmium-related renal damage and supports its possible use in nephroprotective interventions.