Isiuwa Precious HARRISON

Sphenocentrum jollyanum is an important West African medicinal plant traditionally used for treating fever, digestive disorders, and metabolic ailments. Despite its widespread use, limited information exists regarding its biochemical safety and systemic effects during prolonged exposure. This study investigated the effect of aqueous leaf extract of Sphenocentrum jollyanum on renal and hepatic biochemical parameters in Wistar rats following 28 days of sub-chronic oral administration. Twenty male Wistar rats were divided into four groups of five animals each: a control group that received distilled water and three experimental groups treated with 200 mg/kg, 400 mg/kg, and 800 mg/kg of the aqueous leaf extract, respectively, for 28 consecutive days. Blood samples were analyzed for creatinine, urea, uric acid, and aspartate aminotransferase (AST) using standard spectrophotometric methods. The mean biochemical values obtained were as follows: creatinine (4.25 ± 2.07–8.96 ± 3.32 mg/dL), urea (99.82 ± 7.00–161.54 ± 22.92 mg/dL), uric acid (8.18 ± 3.75–13.57 ± 3.88 mg/dL), and AST (54.41 ± 7.28–74.03 ± 18.06 U/L). The results showed no statistically significant differences (p > 0.05) between treated and control groups across all parameters. A slight, non-dose-dependent variation in creatinine and a mild reduction in urea and AST levels at higher doses indicated stable renal and hepatic function. These findings suggest that the extract does not induce nephrotoxicity or hepatotoxicity but may
support metabolic and antioxidant balance. In conclusion, sub-chronic administration of S. jollyanum aqueous extract in Wistar rats was well tolerated and biochemically safe at all tested doses. The study validates the plant’s traditional use as a detoxifying and restorative agent and supports its potential as a natural source of hepatoprotective and nephroprotective compounds.