Assessment of Hepatorenal Indices in Rats Fed with Aqueous Extract of Hibiscus Sabdariffa

The effects of sub-chronic administration of aqueous extract of Hibiscus sabdariffa (HS) on liver and kidney functions were investigated in Wistar rats. Thirty Wistar rats were randomly divided into six groups of 5 rats each. Group A served as the control and was given 5ml/kg of normal saline. Groups B to F were administered HS extract at 100, 500, 1000, 2000 and 5000mg/kg respectively for 6 weeks. Indices of liver and kidney functions were measured and body weight changes monitored. A dose-dependent increase in the activities of liver enzymes and kidney indices was observed. The activities of aspartate aminotranferase, alanine aminotransferase and alkaline phosphatase increased significantly (p<0.05) at doses of 2000mg/kg and above when compared to control while urea, creatinine and uric acid increased significantly (p<0.05) at 1000mg/kg and above. There was a significant (p<0.05) and dose-dependent decrease in weights of rats in the experimental groups. Signs of renal impairment were observed at 1000mg/kg and above while hepatic impairment occurred at 2000mg/kg and above. Thus, the present study has shown that below 1000mg/kg, HS consumption is safe and will not affect the functions of the liver and kidney.