Physalis alkekengi (L.) (Unani name: Kaknaj) Family Solanaceae has been used in Unani system of medicine for a long time to treat various kidney disorders [1]. In this study, hydroalcoholic extract of Physalis alkekengi L. (PAHE) was studied for its nephroprotective activity against cisplatin induced acute renal injury in albino rats of either sex. In the experimental regimen, the animals were administered with PAHE (p.o.) at dose levels of 420mg/kg (equivalent to 3 gm of the traditional therapeutic crude dose), and 980mg/kg (equivalent to 7g) for 10 days. Cisplatin (7mg/kg, i.p.) was administered in a single dose on 4th day of the experiment. The results showed significant (p<0.01) reduction in the elevated blood urea, serum creatinine, uric acid, TBARS level and also normalized the histopathological changes. However, the results were comparatively better at 420mg/kg dose level. The findings suggest that the PAHE possesses marked nephroprotective activity with minimal toxicity and could offer a promising role in the treatment of acute renal injury caused by nephrotoxins like cisplatin. References: [1] Ghani N (1920) Khazainul Adviah, Sheikh Bashir & Sons, Lahore, 263–264.
