The Reno-protective Effect of Aqueous Extract of Carum carvi (Black zeera) Seeds in Streptozotocin induced Diabetic Nephropathy in Rodents

To assess the effect of aqueous extract of Carum carvi seeds in experimentally induced diabetic nephropathy (DN) in rodents, we studied 48 adult male Wistar rats divided into 4 groups: normal controls (group A), diabetes positive control (group B), and experimental (groups C and D). They received Carum carvi extract as a renoprotective agent. Rats having fasting blood glucose levels over 280 mg/dL were included in this study. Group C rats received STZ (60 mg/kg) and aqueous extract of Carum carvi at 30 mg/kg of body weights. On the other hand group D rats received STZ (60 mg/kg) and aqueous extract of Carum carvi at 60 mg/kg of body weight. Blood samples were collected on the 60th day, and kidneys were also extracted for examination. The diabetic group rats showed a variable increase in the serum levels of glucose, urea, creatinine, total urinary protein and microalbuminuric levels. Body weight decreased and urine volume increased in the diabetic groups. 30 mg/kg body weight of Carum carvi dose decreased the levels of these parameters in rats. On the other hand, 60 mg/kg body weight of Carum carvi dose significantly decreased the levels of the biochemical parameters. The morphological examination of group C rats showed no changes whereas the rats in group D showed moderate changes. Carum carvi constituents, especially flavonoids and carvone have strong anti-oxidant activity, which provides reno-protection against diabetes and its complications. In conclusion, high dose of Carum carvi aqueous seeds extract (60 mg/kg) showed reno-protection against STZ induced diabetic nephropathy in rats.