Effects of <i>Moringa oleifera</i> Biochemical Constituents on Kidney, Liver and Brain of Wister Rats

Abstract

Medicinal plant have evolved over the centuries as essential parts of African civilization and are widely recognized today as representing its rich cultural and scientific heritage. The increasing demand for Medicinal plant products has renewed interest in the pharmaceutical industry in the production of herbal health care formulations, herbal-based cosmetic products, and herbal nutritional supplements. Thus, in addition to serving medical and cultural functions, Medicinal plants in Africa have economic importance. Global and national markets have been growing for medicinal herbs, and significant economic gains are being realized through the sale of medicinal plant products. The aim of this particular investigation was to observe the effects of Moringa oleifera 80% methanol leaf extract on the histological architecture of kidney, liver and brain tissues. Fifteen (15) rats were randomLy divided into three (3) with five rats per group. Rats were exposed to 2000 mg/kg, 1000 mg/kg and 500 mg/kg of Moringa oleifera extract per os (p.o) along with the control group that was placed on commercial diet. There was no observed mortality in all experimental rats but there is deleterious effect in brain, liver and kidney in those that were exposed to higher doses especially the 2000 mg/kg. It’s therefore concluded that higher dose of Moringa oleifera is toxic while moderate doses is safe to most vital organs especially brain, liver and kidney. There is need for further investigation to identify the phytochemical constituents that are responsible for the toxic effects.