Nephroprotective Effects of Hydroalcoholic Extract of Cynodon dactylon (L.) Against Gentamicin and Cisplatin‐Induced Nephrotoxicity in Rats

ABSTRACT Nephrotoxicity caused by drugs and environmental toxins remains a major clinical challenge, contributing significantly to hospital‐acquired renal injury. Cynodon dactylon (L.), traditionally used in herbal medicine, is known for its potent antioxidant and therapeutic properties. This study evaluated the nephrotective effect of hydroalcoholic extract of Cynodon dactylon (HAECD) against gentamicin‐ and cisplatin‐induced nephrotoxicity in rats. HAECD was prepared by Soxhlet extraction and subjected to phytochemical screening. Nephrotoxicity was induced using gentamicin (40 mg/kg for 13 days) and cisplatin (5 mg/kg, single dose). HAECD was orally administered at doses of 100, 200, and 400 mg/kg for 10 days. Renal biomarkers, antioxidant parameters, and histopathological changes were evaluated. HAECD significantly restored renal function and antioxidant status in nephrotoxic rats. Superoxide dismutase and reduced glutathione levels increased, while malondialdehyde levels decreased markedly. Histopathological studies confirmed restoration of normal renal architecture with reduced tubular damage and inflammation. The nephroprotective activity may be linked to the high flavonoid and phenolic content of the extract. HAECD exhibited significant protection against gentamicin‐ and cisplatin‐induced renal injury through antioxidant and free radical scavenging mechanisms, suggesting its potential as a natural nephroprotective therapeutic agent.