Phytochemical Analysis of Moroccan Mercurialis annua L. and Its Nephroprotective Activity: Evidence Supporting Traditional Renal Uses

ABSTRACT

Mercurialis annua L . (Euphorbiaceae) is traditionally used to treat renal disorders, although its nephroprotective activity remains poorly documented. This study characterized the phytochemical profile of the Moroccan hydroethanolic extract by UHPLC–ESI/MS, evaluated its acute toxicity, and investigated its protective effect against cyclophosphamide‐induced nephrotoxicity in rats. UHPLC–ESI/MS tentatively identified phenolic and flavonoid constituents, including isorhamnetin derivatives, taxifolin, epicatechin, and hydro‐ p ‐coumaric acid hexoside. No mortality or treatment‐related toxicity was observed up to 5000 mg/kg. Oral administration of the extract (200 and 400 mg/kg) significantly reduced serum creatinine, blood urea nitrogen, kidney weight, and malondialdehyde levels while restoring superoxide dismutase and peroxidase activities. Histopathological examination confirmed marked attenuation of renal damage, particularly at 400 mg/kg. These findings provide the first phytochemical characterization of Moroccan M. annua and support its potential as a safe natural nephroprotective agent through antioxidant‐related mechanisms.