Protective Effects of Mint Leaf (Mentha Piperita) on The Aluminum-Induced Nephrotoxicity in Wistar Rats

  

Doris Kasarachi Ogbuokiri¹, Blessing Uchechukwu Nwosu¹, Joshua Izuchukwu Abugu¹, Darlington Kenechukwu Ezeagu¹, Faustina Chioma Odi², Cordelia Uchechukwu Theresa Nsofor³, Ijeoma Chiamaka Ikueze, Lilian Nnenna Ezeugwu⁴

1. Department of Anatomy, Faculty of Basic Medical Sciences, Nnamdi Azikiwe University, Nnewi
   Campus, Anambra State, Nigeria.
2. Department of Physiology, Faculty of Basic Medical Sciences, Nnamdi Azikiwe University, Nnewi Campus, Anambra State
3. Department of Anatomy, Moses and Grace College of Health and Technology, Benin City, Edo State, Nigeria.
4. Department of Anatomy, Faculty of Basic Medical Sciences, Maduka University, Ekwegbe -Nsukka,
   Enugu state, Nigeria.

ABSTRACT

Aluminum has been recognized as a potential occupational toxin for nearly five decades, with chronic inhalation linked to pulmonary disorders and encephalopathy. This study investigated the ameliorative potential of Mentha piperita (Mint) leaf extract against Aluminum-induced nephrotoxicity in male Wistar rats. Thirty adult male rats (160–195 g) were randomly assigned to six groups: Group A (Control), Group B (250 mg/kg mint extract), Group C (Aluminum chloride, 75 mg/kg), Group D (Aluminum chloride, 150 mg/kg), Group E [Aluminum chloride (75 mg/kg) + Mint extract (250 mg/kg)], and Group F (Aluminum chloride (150 mg/kg) + Mint extract). Treatments were administered orally. Twenty-four hours after the final administration, rats were weighed, euthanized, and kidney tissues harvested for histological and biochemical analyses. Data were analysed using ANOVA with significance set at p < 0.05. Results indicated increased body weight across all groups. Relative kidney weight was elevated in Groups B, C, D, E, and F compared to controls, with a statistically significant increase in Group E. Histological examination revealed preservation of renal architecture in mint-treated groups, while biochemical analyses demonstrated modulation of renal biomarkers. The findings confirm that Mentha piperita extract at 250 mg/kg is safe and effectively mitigates aluminum chloride-induced nephrotoxicity. This extract improved physiological parameters, preserved kidney histology, and supported renal function. These results highlight the potential of Mentha piperita as a natural nephroprotective agent and warrant further exploration for managing heavy metal-induced renal toxicity.

KEYWORDS: Mint Extract, Heavy Metal Poisoning, Histomorphology, Nephrotoxicity, Plant Bioactive Compounds