Ethanopharmacological Insights into Croton zambesicus and Murraya koenigii Root Extracts: A Focus on Nephroprotective activity

Abstract

Nephrotoxicity, a significant clinical concern, arises due to exposure to drugs, environmental toxins, and diseases causing kidney damage. The increasing prevalence of nephrotoxicity necessitates exploring safer, plant-based therapeutic agents. Traditional medicine provides an invaluable resource, with plants like Croton zambesicus and Murraya koenigii being widely recognized for their medicinal properties. This review investigates the ethnopharmacological potential of Croton zambesicus and Murraya koenigii root extracts, focusing on their efficacy in in vitro models of nephrotoxicity. Croton zambesicus is known for its antiinflammatory, antioxidant, and antimicrobial properties, attributed to its rich phytochemical profile, including alkaloids, flavonoids, and terpenoids. Similarly, Murraya koenigii, commonly known as curry leaf, is traditionally used for its hepatoprotective, antidiabetic, and renal protective effects, supported by bioactive compounds such as carbazole alkaloids, tannins, and phenolics. Both plants demonstrate promising nephroprotective activity through mechanisms such as attenuation of oxidative stress, modulation of inflammatory pathways, and inhibition of apoptosis in renal cells. This review consolidates evidence from preclinical in vitro studies to elucidate the nephroprotective mechanisms of these plant extracts. Emphasis is placed on experimental models used to simulate nephrotoxicity, the phytochemical constituents contributing to renoprotection, and the pharmacological pathways involved. Furthermore, the review highlights the need for standardization of extract preparation, dose optimization, and comprehensive toxicity profiling. By providing a critical synthesis of the existing literature, this review aims to bridge gaps in understanding the therapeutic potential of Croton zambesicus and Murraya koenigii root extracts. Future directions are proposed, emphasizing translational research to validate their clinical applicability in nephrotoxicity management. These insights underscore the role of traditional medicinal plants as a basis for developing novel, effective, and safer nephroprotective agents.