Physiological and histological studies of Moringa oleifera against sodium nitrate toxicity in rats

Moringa oleifera, rich in minerals and bioactive substances like phytochemicals such as flavonoids, glucosinolates, isothiocyanates, and phenolic acids, can promote normal body functions and protect from diseases. This study aims to assess the ameliorated effects of Moringa oleifera leaf powder (MOLP) on rats given sodium nitrate (SN) in drinking water. Twenty-five male albino rats were divided into five groups: The control group, fed standard diet for six weeks; MOLP group: fed on MOLP (10%) mixed with diet for six weeks; the SN group received 500 mg/L of SN daily for six weeks in drinking water; SN/MOLP group: drink SN for three weeks then fed on MOLP (10%) for another three weeks; and MOLP + SN group: fed on MOLP (10%) mixed with diet and SN in drinking water at the same time for six weeks. We evaluated the biochemical analysis, including total protein, albumin, total bilirubin, cholesterol, and glucose, as well as visualized histopathological changes in the liver tissue. Rats drinking SN showed a significant (P≤0.05) decrease in total protein and albumin levels, along with an increase in total bilirubin, cholesterol, and glucose levels in serum. As well as a reduction in final body weight and weight gain. Histologically, SN caused hepatic tissue alterations. Otherwise, rats received MOLP as a protective or a treatment showed an improvement in those parameters accompanied by significant improvements in liver tissue of those groups. In conclusion, the study suggests that MOLP feeding may protect and treat the liver damage caused by SN.