Protective Effects of Ocimum gratissimum Leaf Extract Against Ibuprofen – Induced Gastrointestinal and Renal Toxicity in the Rats

Abstract

Aims: This study investigated the protective effects of Ocimum gratissimum (OG) leaf extract against ibuprofen-induced gastrointestinal and renal toxicity in rats. Study Design: Experimental animal study. Place and Duration of Study: The study was conducted in Animal House Facility of the Department of Human Physiology, College of Basic Medical Sciences, Abia State University, Uturu, Abia State, Nigeria. Methodology: Fresh Ocimum gratissimum leaves were extracted and subjected to phytochemical analysis and acute toxicity testing. Renal toxicity was induced using ibuprofen. Fifty rats were divided into five groups (n = 10): normal control, ibuprofen control (200 mg/kg), and three treatment groups receiving ibuprofen plus OG leaf extract at 200, 400, and 800 mg/kg body weight. Renal function indices and antioxidant parameters were assessed after 28 days. Gastrointestinal studies included charcoal meal motility, gastric acid secretion, extractible mucus weight, and ulcer score evaluation. Data were analyzed using SPSS version 21, with significance set at p < 0.05. Results: Phytochemical analysis revealed high flavonoid (17.48±0.27 mg/100 g) and phenolic (12.42±0.10 mg/100 g) contents, with moderate levels of saponins and alkaloids. The extract showed a high safety margin with an LD₅₀ > 5000 mg/kg, while ibuprofen had an LD₅₀ of 707.11 mg/kg. Ibuprofen significantly elevated serum urea and creatinine and reduced antioxidant enzyme activities while increasing lipid peroxidation (p < 0.05). Co-treatment with OG extract significantly normalized renal function parameters, improved antioxidant status, and reduced lipid peroxidation. OG extract also significantly improved gastrointestinal motility, increased gastric mucus, reduced gastric acidity, and lowered ulcer scores in ibuprofen-treated rats (p < 0.05). Conclusion: Ocimum gratissimum leaf extract confers significant renoprotective and gastroprotective effects against ibuprofen-induced toxicity, primarily through antioxidant and anti-inflammatory mechanisms, supporting its potential therapeutic application in the management of NSAID-associated gastrointestinal and renal damage.