In Vivo Evaluation of Heavy Metal Decontaminated Marine Macroalgae (Ulva lactuca L.) Using Bilimbi (Averrhoa bilimbi) Juice and Its Potency As Nephroprotector

Ulva lactuca is a functional food ingredient with high antioxidant content. The presence of heavy metal contaminants in natural needs to be eliminated. was investigated for its potential as nephroprotector female Wistar rats. study assessed Blood Urea Nitrogen (BUN) levels, creatinine and kidney histopathology. experiment included Group I (control), II (administered 1000 mg/Kg BW/day lactuca), III decontaminated using bilimbi juice). After 30 days oral treatment, no significant differences were observed BUN levels before after treatment. However, variations found compared the Both showed adverse effects on function. Notably, exhibited improved histopathology, suggesting nephroprotector. Further research needed explore broader applications promoting health.