C. O. AZUBIKE

Sweet Basil (Ocimum basilicum) is a widely utilized medicinal herb recognized for its antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and protective phytochemicals; however, its renal safety profile under normal physiological conditions remains inadequately characterized. This study evaluated the effect of ethanolic extract of Ocimum basilicum leaves on kidney function parameters in healthy female Wistar rats. Thirty rats were randomly distributed into five groups (n=6 per group): a control group receiving distilled water and four test groups administered 300, 500, 1000, and 1500 mg/kg body weight of Basil extract orally for 21 days. At the end of the treatment period, serum samples were analyzed for electrolytes (sodium, potassium, chloride, bicarbonate) and markers of renal function (urea, creatinine, and uric acid) using standard biochemical protocols. Data were statistically analyzed using one-way ANOVA. Results revealed no statistically significant differences (p>0.05) among the groups for all evaluated parameters, though mild dose-dependent fluctuations were observed, all remaining within normal physiological ranges. Sodium, potassium, chloride, and bicarbonate concentrations exhibited no notable disturbances, indicating maintained electrolyte and acid-base balance, while urea, creatinine, and uric acid levels remained stable, suggesting preserved glomerular filtration and tubular function. These findings suggest that sub- chronic administration of ethanolic Sweet Basil leaf extract at doses up to 1500 mg/kg does not adversely affect renal biochemical indices in normal female Wistar rats, demonstrating its relative safety under non-pathological conditions. It is concluded that Ocimum basilicum is safe within the tested dosage and duration; however, further research incorporating histopathological assessment, molecular markers of renal function, longer durations of administration, and diseased models is recommended to fully validate its renal safety and therapeutic potential.