PROTECTIVE EFFECTS OF AQUEOUS OENOTHERA FLOWER EXTRACT AGAINST ARTEMISNIN INDUCED HEPATO-RENAL INJURY

Abstract

Background

The liver and kidneys are primary targets of xenobiotic-induced toxicity due to their central role in metabolism and detoxification. Artemisinin is a widely used antimalarial drug with demonstrated efficacy against Plasmodium species. Still, it is increasingly associated with hepatotoxic and nephrototoxic side effects at high doses, mediated through oxidative stress and inflammation. Oenothrera is rich in Gamma-linolenic acid, polyphenols, and flavonoids, with antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. However, the potential effect of aqueous Oenothera flower extracts remains unexplored.

Objective

This study investigated the protective effects of aqueous Oenothera flower extract against artemisinin-induced hepato-renal injury.

Methods

Ten male rabbits were divided into two groups: a control group (n=5) and an experimental group (n=5). The experimental group received artemisinin (80 mg/kg) for 3 days, followed by aqueous Oenothera flower extract (250 mg/kg/day, suspended in 15 mL of distilled water) for 11 days. Biochemical markers were measured, and histological analysis of liver and kidney tissues was performed.

Results

Artemisinin significantly elevated serum creatinine, urea, ALT, AST, and bilirubin levels and caused histological degeneration in hepatic and renal cells. Post-treatment with Oenothera flower extract restored biochemical markers to baseline and improved histological alterations by day 14

Conclusion

Aqueous Oenothera flower extract showed hepatoprotective and nephroprotective effects against artemisinin-induced injury.