Effects of Moringa oleifera Leaves on Rats Drinking Sodium Nitrate

Moringa oleifera leaves (MO) contain flavonoids and phenolic acids that can protect against oxidative stress-related chronic illnesses. The current study aimed to determine the efficacy of Moringa oleifera leaf powder (MOLP) against the toxic effect induced by sodium nitrate (NaNO3). Five groups, each of five rats were used. Group I: rats fed on normal diet for 6 weeks; Group II: rats fed on 10% of MOLP mixed with diet; Group III: rats received 500 mg/L of NaNO3 daily in drinking water for 6 weeks; Group IV: rats received NaNO3 for 3 weeks in drinking water then fed MOLP 10% mixed with diet; and Group V: rats fed on 10% MOLP mixed with diet and NaNO3 in drinking water for 6 weeks at the same time. The results showed that drinking NaNO3 significantly elevates hepatic enzymes (P≤0.05) as well as oxidative stress biomarkers (MDA, NO and PC), but decreases the antioxidant markers (SOD, CAT and GSH) levels. The treatment with MOLP significantly reduces liver enzymes activities and hepatic oxidative stress biomarkers but elevated hepatic antioxidants. In conclusion, Moringa oleifera leaves powder may has a protecting and therapeutic effects against toxicity induced by NaNO3 via the improvement of the antioxidant status of NaNO3 drinking rats.