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Restorative effect of Curcuma longa on arsenic-induced nephrotoxicity in rats

Volume No : Volume: 02 Issue : 9 Year : 2014 Page No: 486-490

Authors : Raj Bala, Ranjit Kumar, Farida Bano, Mohammad Ali and Arun Kumar

Abstract :

Arsenic is a metalloid that can be toxic to humans and other living organisms, occurs naturally and anthropogenically throughout the world at varying concentrations, including concentrations of concern in soil or groundwater. Presently, in Bihar (India) 16 districts are affected with arsenic poisoning in ground water causing lots of health hazards among the population and presently there is no solution for them. This arsenic intoxication has caused lots of problems related to kidney. The present study investigated the restorative effect Curcuma longa (Turmeric) on sodium arsenite induced nephrotoxicity in rats. Sodium arsenite (8 mg/kg/day p.o. 8 weeks) was administered to produce nephrotoxicity in rats followed by administration of Curcuma longa (100 mg/kg/day p.o. 4 weeks) to attenuate the arsenic mediated nephro-toxicity. The kidney function tests were assayed and were found with elevated levels of urea, uric acid, and creatinine. Furthermore, their free radical assessment like lipid peroxidation levels were assayed which was found significantly high. But, after administration of aqueous extract of Curcuma longa, it caused significant restoration in serum levels of urea, uric acid, creatinine, and lipid peroxidation levels. Thus, it is evident from study that Curcuma longa possesses antidote and acts effectively against arsenic induced nephrotoxicity.

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