Hepatotoxicity and Nephrotoxicity of Polyherbal Mixtures: A Histopathological Review in Diabetic Contexts

Kato Jumba K.

Faculty of Science and Technology Kampala International University Uganda

ABSTRACT

Polyherbal mixtures (PHMs) have gained significant attention in the management of diabetes mellitus due to their potential to provide a multifaceted approach to therapy. These mixtures, which often combine extracts from different plant species, possess diverse therapeutic effects, including antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and hypoglycemic properties. The antioxidant action of PHMs helps neutralize free radicals, mitigating the oxidative stress that plays a crucial role in the pathogenesis of diabetes and its complications. Anti-inflammatory effects further reduce the chronic inflammation commonly seen in diabetic patients, while hypoglycemic properties aid in regulating blood glucose levels, making PHMs an attractive alternative or adjunct to conventional treatments. However, the growing popularity of PHMs has raised significant safety concerns, particularly regarding their potential to cause hepatotoxicity and nephrotoxicity. Both the liver and kidneys play essential roles in the detoxification, metabolism, and excretion of various xenobiotics, including those from herbal products. This makes these organs highly susceptible to damage induced by the phytochemicals present in PHMs. The review critically examines the histopathological changes observed in both liver and kidney tissues in diabetic models treated with PHMs. These include hepatocellular necrosis, fatty degeneration, tubular necrosis, and glomerular atrophy, as reported in both preclinical and clinical studies. Furthermore, the review discusses various risk factors contributing to PHM-induced toxicity, such as phytochemical interactions, bioaccumulation of toxic substances, lack of standardization in formulation, and variations in dosage. Emphasizing the importance of robust toxicological evaluations, the review advocates for the development of standardization protocols and regulatory oversight for the production and usage of PHMs. Ensuring their safety is critical for promoting their use as viable therapeutics in diabetic care.

Keywords: Polyherbal mixtures; Hepatotoxicity; Nephrotoxicity; Histopathology; Diabetes mellitus

CITE AS: Kato Jumba K. (2025). Hepatotoxicity and Nephrotoxicity of Polyherbal Mixtures: A Histopathological Review in Diabetic Contexts. Research Output Journal of Public Health and Medicine 5(3):16-21. https://doi.org/10.59298/ROJPHM/2025/531621