AN EXPERIMENTAL PHYTOCHEMICAL INVESTIGATION AND ASSESSMENT OF NEPHRO-PROTECTIVE ACTIVITY OF VARIEGATED CROTON PLANT EXTRACT ON EXPERIMENTAL RATS

The search for effective nephroprotective agents from natural sources has become crucial in combating the increasing prevalence of kidney diseases. This study investigates the nephroprotective effects of Variegated Croton, a plant with a long history of traditional use in treating kidney-related disorders. Nephrotoxicity was generated in Wistar rats with nephrotoxic drugs, and the potential protective benefits of Variegated Croton extract were comprehensively investigated. The extract is high bioactive chemicals including phenolics and flavonoids, revealed strong antioxidant activity in the DPPH assay, implying that it can reduce oxidative stress, which is a primary cause of kidney injury. The results showed that the extract considerably improved renal function, as seen by lower serum creatinine and blood urea nitrogen (BUN) levels and a noticeable rise in urine output. These findings demonstrate the extract's capacity to promote renal filtration and prevent malfunction. Histopathological investigation validated the nephroprotective effects by revealing a decrease in kidney damage, including tubular necrosis, glomerular damage, and inflammation. These findings collectively support the concept that Variegated Croton has strong nephroprotective qualities, which are most likely mediated by antioxidant and anti-inflammatory pathways, supporting its traditional use and indicating its potential as a therapeutic agent for kidney protection.