Ruellia tuberosa L. Leaf Extract Improves Histopathological Damages in Kidneys of Alloxan-Induced Diabetic Rats

Background: Diabetes mellitus is a Non-Communicable Disease (NCD) characterized by hyperglycemia and insulin dysfunction, leading to redox imbalance and increased Reactive Oxygen Species (ROS). This oxidative stress condition can lead to kidney damage. While drugs like metformin are commonly used to treat diabetes, they can also cause damage to the kidney. Therefore, exploring natural alternatives, such as Ruellia tuberosa L. leaves, is important to minimize side effects and protect kidney function. Methods: This study used a Completely Randomized Design (CRD) with five treatments and five replications. The negative control group received distilled water, while the positive control group was injected with alloxan (150 mg/kgBW) and treated with metformin (50 mg/kg BW). Treatment groups (P1, P2, and P3) received alloxan (150 mg/kg BW) and Ruellia tuberosa L. extract at doses of 200, 400, and 800 mg/kg BW, respectively. Data were analyzed using the Kruskal-Wallis test, and if the extract showed an effect on the kidney condition, post hoc analysis with the Mann-Whitney test was performed. Results: The results of the study showed that there was kidney damage characterized by glomerular necrosis, degeneration of tubular cells, and necrosis of renal tubular cells due to alloxan induction. However, giving Ruellia tuberosa L. extract at doses of 200, 400, and 800 mg/kgBW can prevent kidney damage. Conclusion: The data analysis results indicate that the Ruellia tuberosa L. leaf extract can prevent kidney damage in alloxan-induced diabetic white rats, with the recommended effective dose of 800 mg/kgBW.