Histological Effects of Kepok Banana (Musa paradisiaca L.) Heart Extract on the Kidneys and Liver of Mice

Abstract

Kepok banana (Musa paradisiaca L.) heart is rich in secondary metabolites and has found wide applications in traditional medicine. This study aimed to assess the safety of Kepok banana heart extract on the kidney and liver histology in male albino mice. Musa paradisiaca heart extract was obtained by maceration in 70% ethanol, and the extract was formulated into a suspension. Thirty-six male albino mice were divided into four groups: a control group and three treatment groups which received oral administration of the extract for 7, 14, and 21 days at doses of 200, 400, and 800 mg/kg body weight (bw). Liver and kidney samples were taken for histological examination. The observed parameter was histological tissue damage in the kidneys and liver. The outcome indicated that the administration of Musa paradisiaca heart extract at doses of 200 - 800 mg/kg bw did not cause significant damage across all time points. However, at 800 mg/kg bw, histological changes, such as hyperemia (day 7) and inflammatory cell infiltration (days 14 and 21), were observed. On day 14, liver analysis revealed that the 200 and 400 mg/kg bw groups' hepatocytes and central vein architectures were normal. Mild periportal inflammatory infiltration was noted in the 800 mg/kg bw group. These findings suggest that Musa paradisiaca heart extract is relatively safe at doses of 200 - 400 mg/kg bw but may induce mild tissue alterations at 800 mg/kg bw. Further investigation is recommended to evaluate long-term toxicity and establish safety thresholds for potential therapeutic applications.