Effects of aqueous extract of <i>Chromolaena odorata</i> leaves on arsenic acid-induced kidney damage in adult Wistar rats

In African folk medicine, Chromolaena odorata have been used for treating various ailments such as dysentery, malaria, toothache, skin diseases and diabetes. The aim of this study was to investigate effects of the aqueous extract of Chromolaena odorata on the kidneys of rats damaged with arsenic acid. Thirty (30) Wistar rats were randomly assigned into a Control group (A) and five treatment groups (B, C, D, E, F) containing 5 rats each. Group B was administered with 4mg/kg of Arsenic only. Rats in Group C were given 400mg/kg body weight of aqueous extract of Chromolaena odorata only. Group D was administered 1000mg/kg body weight of aqueous extract of Chromolaena odorata only. Group E was given 400mg/kg body weight of Chromolaena odorata aqueous extract and 4mg/kg of Arsenic acid and Group F was given 1000mg/kg body weight of Chromolaena odorata aqueous extract and 4mg/kg of Arsenic acid. The result showed that arsenic acid caused an increase in the urea level, decrease in SOD level and tubular necrosis of the kidney. While aqueous extract of Chromolaena odorata caused decrease in the level of urea, increase in SOD level across the groups plus the combination group with arsenic acid. Histological examination of the kidneys treated with arsenic acid and low and high doses of the extract showed amelioration with the lower dose having a more potent effect. It can be concluded that aqueous leaf extract of C. odorata was able to ameliorate arsenic acid induced kidney damage in adult Wistar rats.