Abstract

To continue the other plants with organ protective potential, the present study was undertaken to investigate the hydroalcoholic extract (70% alcoholic extract) of Samanea saman (Jacq.) Merr leaves for its protective effects on paracetamol induced renal damage in rats.  Rats were divided into four groups containing 6 animals in each; normal saline, paracetamol 2G/kg, hydroalcoholic extract of Samanea saman in lower (250 mg/kg p.o) and higher dose (500mg/Kg p.o) levels. Total phenolics and flavonoids were quanitified. Invitro and invivo antioxidant activities were also performed. BUN and serum creatinine were also estimated as a part of investigation. The phenolic and flavonoidal content of 70% alcoholic extract were found to be 77.14 mg/G and 229.0 mg/G respectively. Paracetamol induced nephrotoxicity as revealed by marked changes in physical, tissue and blood parameters. Administration with hydroalcoholic extract of leaves of Samanea saman improved all these parameters.  Even elevated LPO and reduced tissue GSH level were significantly reversed.  These changes in parameters clearly indicate the potential use of this plant in paracetamol induced nephrotoxicity and this may be attributed to the presence of antioxidant principles.