ASSESSING THE BIOCHEMICAL EFFECTS OF PHYLLANTUS AMARUS AND BITTER LEAF ON THE LIVER AND KIDNEY USING ADULT WISTAR RAT.

Phyllanthus amarus and Bitter Leaf are widely known for their medicinal benefits, particularly in liver and kidney health. However, their effects on biochemical parameters in animal models require comprehensive study. This research investigates the effects of Phyllanthus amarus (Extract X) and Bitter Leaf (Extract Y) on liver and kidney function parameters in adult Wistar rats. Twenty-one rats were randomly divided into seven groups (n = 3 per group). Group 1 received 0.5 ml/kg/week of Phyllanthus amarus (X); Group 2 received 1.0 ml/kg/week of Phyllanthus amarus; Group 3 was administered 0.5 ml/kg/week of Bitter Leaf (Y); Group 4 received 1.0 ml/kg/week of Bitter Leaf; Group 5 was given a combination of 0.5 ml/kg/week of Phyllanthus amarus and 0.5 ml/kg/week of Bitter Leaf; Group 6 received a combination of 1.0 ml/kg/week of Phyllanthus amarus and 1.0 ml/kg/week of Bitter Leaf; Group 7, the control, received only standard diets and water. The extracts were administered orally for 21 days. Biochemical parameters, including urea, creatinine, alkaline phosphatase (ALP), alanine aminotransferase (ALT), and aspartate aminotransferase (AST), were measured. The results showed that Phyllanthus amarus significantly decreased ALT and AST levels at higher doses (1.0 ml/kg), suggesting hepatoprotection, while a low dose (0.5 ml/kg) increased creatinine levels, indicating possible renal stress. Bitter Leaf increased ALT, AST, and ALP levels at higher doses (1.0 ml/kg), reflecting potential hepatotoxicity. Significant differences were observed in ALT, AST, and creatinine levels between treated groups and the control (p < 0.05), especially in groups receiving Bitter Leaf. The combination of both extracts produced mixed results, with a high-dose combination showing an elevated risk to both liver and kidney functions. Phyllanthus amarus may offer hepatoprotective benefits, whereas Bitter Leaf poses hepatotoxic risks at higher doses. Both plants also influence kidney function, suggesting the need for cautious use. Further studies are required to explore their clinical relevance and establish safe dosages for medicinal use.