Assessment of Kidney Function Markers in Individuals Consuming Herbal Remedies in Lokoja, Kogi State

The widespread and often unsupervised use of herbal remedies in Nigeria raises significant concerns about potential nephrotoxicity, particularly in populations with limited access to conventional healthcare. This study assessed kidney function markers in individuals regularly consuming herbal remedies in Lokoja, Kogi State, North Central Nigeria. Eighty adults who had been taking herbal preparations for at least six months were recruited alongside 40 non-herbal-using controls from the same community. Serum creatinine, urea, uric acid, and estimated glomerular filtration rate were determined from venous blood samples using an automated biochemistry analyser. Urine protein was assessed by dipstick. Sociodemographic data and herbal use details were obtained through structured interview. Mann-Whitney U and chi-square tests were used for analysis. Results showed significantly elevated serum creatinine and urea levels among herbal remedy users compared to controls. Estimated glomerular filtration rate was reduced in 22.5 percent of herbal users, suggesting moderate renal impairment. Proteinuria was detected in 17.5 percent of users. Duration and frequency of herbal use were positively correlated with degree of renal impairment. The study concludes that prolonged herbal remedy consumption is associated with subclinical nephrotoxicity in this population. Community education on herbal risks and regulatory oversight of traditional medicine products are recommended. Keywords: herbal remedies, nephrotoxicity, kidney function, creatinine, Kogi State.