Ameliorative Effects of Aqueous -Methanol Leaf extract of Piliostigma thonningii (Schum.) Crude Extract on Lead-Induced Toxicity in Rats

Lead (Pb) is a potent noxious environmental pollutant that induces systemic biochemical, hepatic, and oxidative stress alterations. This study investigated the potential ameliorative effects of Piliostigma thonningsii leaf aqueous- methanolic crude extract on Pb-induced toxicity in rats. Adult male Wistar rats were divided into seven groups, including a control receiving distilled water only, Pb-only, graded doses of P. thonningii leaf extract (200, 400, and 800 mg/kg) coadministered with Pb (150mg/kg), and selenium(10mg/kg) -treated groups orally by gavage. Pb administration resulted in significant biochemical, hepatic, and oxidative imbalances. Treatment with P. thonningii extract demonstrated dose-dependent mitigation, particularly in serum proteins, lipid profiles, liver enzyme levels, and antioxidant parameters. The 400 mg/kg dose showed optimal protective efficacy across most parameters. These findings support the therapeutic potential of P. thonningii against lead toxicity.