Toxicological Effect of Aqueous n-hexane Leaf Extract of Anacardium occidentale on Liver and Kidney Parameters of Albino Wistar Rats

Abstract

Anacardium occidentale is a plant known for its vast medicinal properties and has been used in Nigeria for the treatment of several ailments. However, little is known about the toxic effects of aqueous n-hexane leaf extract on liver and kidney. The study aimed to assess the toxic effect of the aqueous N-hexane leaf extract, by examining its yield, phytochemical composition, and toxicity levels. Conducted on 27 adult albino wistar rats, the research included acute and sub-acute toxicity assessments. The extract, obtained with a yield of 18.66%, revealed the presence of alkaloids, flavonoids, steroids, phenolic compounds, and tannins, while lacking saponins. Acute toxicity tests showed no adverse effects at 5000mg/kg body weight dosage. In the sub-acute phase, rats were administered doses ranging from 100 to 400mg/kg body weight for 7 and 14 days. Body weight decreased with increased in administration. When compared with the control, organ body weight ratios for the liver and kidneys, exhibited non-significant (p>0.05) difference across dosage groups. Liver and kidney function parameters remained largely unaffected (p>0.05) when compared with the control. The findings suggest that the extract may not pose any adverse effects on liver and the kidney function at doses of 100, 250 and 400mg/kg after 14 days of administration.