EC Clinical and Medical Case Reports

Research Article Volume 8 Issue 11 - 2025

Curative Effects of Ethanol Leaf Extract of Cnidoscolus aconitifolius on Visceral Organs (Liver and Kidney) of Alloxan-Induced Diabetic Female Wistar Rats

Okoroigbo Franklin Chiedozie1, Ohanme Eugene Ohams2*, Anyichie Nonye3, Okolo Kasie Titus3, Akunna Lynda4, Malize Chinwe Grace3, Ezinwanne Emmanuel Enyinnaya5 and Inyenwa Mary Ozioma3

1Department of Anatomy, Faculty of Basic Medicine, Rhema University, Aba, Abia State, Nigeria

2Department of Pharmacology and Therapeutics, Faculty of Basic Clinical Medicine, Alex Ekwueme Federal Ndufu-Alike Ikwo, Ebonyi State, Nigeria

3Anambra State College of Health Technology Obosi, Anambra State, Nigeria

4Lasbery College of Health Technology Ogidi, Anambra State, Nigeria

5College of Community Health, University on the Niger Teaching Hospital, Iyi-enu Ogidi, Anambra State, Nigeria

*Corresponding Author:Ohanme Eugene Ohams, Department of Pharmacology and Therapeutics, Faculty of Basic Clinical Medicine, Alex Ekwueme Federal Ndufu-Alike Ikwo, Ebonyi State, Nigeria.
Received: October 31, 2025; Published: November 15, 2025



Background: Diabetes mellitus is a chronic metabolic disorder often associated with oxidative stress, which can lead to cellular damage in key organs such as the liver and kidney. The search for natural remedies with antioxidant and antidiabetic properties has directed scientific attention toward medicinal plants such as Cnidoscolus aconitifolius (Chaya). The plant is traditionally used in managing diabetes, hypertension, and related metabolic complications.

Objective: This study aimed to evaluate the antidiabetic, hepatoprotective, and renoprotective effects of the ethanolic leaf extract of Cnidoscolus aconitifolius in alloxan-induced diabetic female Wistar rats, while assessing the phytochemical constituents responsible for these effects.

Methods: Phytochemical analysis of the ethanolic leaf extract was conducted to identify bioactive compounds. Experimental rats were divided into groups and induced with alloxan to develop diabetes, followed by oral administration of C. aconitifolius extract at doses of 100 mg/kg and 500 mg/kg for 14 days. Blood samples were analyzed for liver enzyme markers (ALT, AST, ALP), kidney function indices (urea, creatinine), and glucose levels. Histological examinations of the liver and kidney tissues were also carried out.

Results: Phytochemical screening revealed the presence of flavonoids, saponins, alkaloids, tannins, cardiac glycosides, and steroids, with flavonoids and saponins occurring in high concentrations. Administration of C. aconitifolius extract led to a dose-dependent reduction in blood glucose, confirming its antihyperglycemic potential. Liver enzyme assays showed a significant decrease in AST, ALT, and ALP levels in treated groups compared to untreated diabetic controls, indicating reduced hepatic injury and improved liver function. Similarly, urea and creatinine levels decreased significantly in treated groups, demonstrating improved kidney function and protection against diabetic nephropathy. Histological analyses supported these biochemical findings, showing fewer necrotic cells in the liver and kidney tissues of treated rats compared to untreated diabetic rats.

Conclusion: The ethanolic leaf extract of Cnidoscolus aconitifolius exhibits potent antidiabetic, hepatoprotective, and renoprotective effects in alloxan-induced diabetic rats. These effects are attributed to its high flavonoid and saponin content, which confer antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and antihyperglycemic properties. The extract also enhances the functional recovery of the liver and kidney by reducing oxidative stress and cellular damage.

 Keywords: Cnidoscolus aconitifolius (C. aconitifolius); Visceral Organs (Liver and Kidney); Alloxan; Diabetic Female Wistar Rats

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Ohanme Eugene Ohams., et al. “Curative Effects of Ethanol Leaf Extract of Cnidoscolus aconitifolius on Visceral Organs (Liver and Kidney) of Alloxan-Induced Diabetic Female Wistar Rats”. EC Clinical and Medical Case Reports  8.11 (2025): 01-17.

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