Abstract
Costus spicatus
(spiked spiralflag ginger) is traditionally utilised for its advantages such as antidiabetic, antihyperlipidemic, diuretic, antimicrobial, and anticancer properties. However, there is no scientific evidence on the nephroprotective potential of this plant. Thus, this study tested the nephroprotective effect of the polyphenol-rich extract of
Costus spicatus
leaves (PCSL) using preclinical models, including the HeK cell line and Wistar albino rats against cisplatin-induced toxicity. It also determined the polyphenolic compounds using high-performance thin-layer chromatography (HPTLC). PCSL showed significant (
p
< 0.05) nephroprotective potential against cisplatin-induced nephrotoxicity in HeK cells. Moreover, in vivo studies revealed significant (
p
< 0.05) amelioration in serum biochemical markers and antioxidant enzymes against cisplatin-induced nephrotoxicity. PCSL significantly inhibited the level of inflammatory cytokines such as TNF-α, IL-6, and IL-1β. Moreover, PCSL restored the damage of the kidney tissues and ameliorated interstitial haemorrhage, congestion in capillaries, inflammatory cell infiltration, vacuolated cytoplasm, and tubular epithelial injury with widened Bowman's space. In addition, HPTLC analysis revealed that PCSL comprised polyphenolic compounds such as caffeic acid, quercetin, and ferulic acid. In conclusion, PCSL exerted nephroprotective potential by modulating the expression of inflammation, oxidative stress, and histological architecture of kidney tissues.