Protective Effect Of Hydro-Ethanolic Extract Of Bushweed Flueggea Virosa On Renal Damage In Streptozotocin-Induced Hyperglycemia In Rat

Aim: To study the effect of hydro-ethanolic extract of Flueggea virosa on Streptozotocin-induced hyperglycemia in rats with respect to kidney function parameters and histology. 
Methods: 
Daily single oral doses of Flueggea virosa extract (100 and 200 mg/kg) and the anti-diabetic drug Metformin (500 mg/kg) were administered for 21 days to three groups of rats rendered diabetic by a single injection of Streptozotocin (60mg/kg). The body weight and blood glucose levels were recorded every 7th day. On the 21st day, the rats were euthanized and blood collected for testing kidney functions. 
Results: Treatment of Flueggea virosa extract and metformin significantly reduced fasting blood glucose levels, blood urea, creatinine, uric acid, blood urea nitrogen and increased the levels of total protein.  Histological studies showed metformin and hydro-ethanolic extract of Flueggea virosa retard the onset of glomerular hypertrophy, mesangial expansion, tubular dilation, collagen fiber deposition and inflammatory cells accumulation. Thus indicated delayed effect of hydro-ethanolic extract of Flueggea virosa on progression of diabetic nephropathy.   
Conclusion: Rats rendered diabetic by Streptozotocin, were administered hydro-ethanolic extract of Flueggea virosa (200 mg/kg) and metformin. These treatments reduced hyperglycemia and progression of diabetic nephropathy.  