Effects of Phyllanthus Amarus Aqueous Extract on Haematological Parameters and Renal Morphology in an Adenine-Induced Rat Model of Chronic Kidney Disease

Abstract

Chronic kidney disease (CKD) is a progressive condition characterized by declining renal function and is frequently accompanied by secondary anaemia. Phyllanthus amarus is an important medicinal plant traditionally used for managing renal and urinary tract disorders. This study evaluated the effects of an aqueous extract of Phyllanthus amarus (PAAE) on haematological parameters and renal morphology in a Wistar rat model of CKD, with kidney changes assessed by both gross examination and histopathology following haematoxylin and eosin staining. Twenty-four adult male Wistar rats were randomly allocated to four groups (n = 6): normal control, adenine control (100 mg/kg body weight), adenine (100 mg/kg body weight) + PAAE (100 mg/kg body weight), and adenine (100 mg/kg body weight) + PAAE (200 mg/kg body weight). Treatments were administered orally once daily for 28 days. Adenine administration resulted in significant reductions in RBC count, haemoglobin concentration, and packed cell volume. Gross examination revealed pale and irregular kidneys, while histological assessment showed marked tubular dilation, crystal deposition, tubulointerstitial alterations, and epithelial degeneration. Co-administration of PAAE at both doses significantly improved RBC count, Hb concentration, and PCV compared with the adenine-treated group. Renal morphology also improved following PAAE treatment, with the 200 mg/kg dose producing greater restoration of the renal histological architecture. Overall, the findings support the nephroprotective and haematinic potential of Phyllanthus amarus in the experimental CKD model.