RESUMEN
BACKGROUND: The kidney is tasked with a number of metabolic functions in the body. In its role as a detoxifier and primary eliminator of xenobiotics, it becomes vulnerable to developing injuries. Currently, over 1 million people in the world are living on renal replacement therapies (RRTs). The case in sub-Sahara African countries like Nigeria and South Africa is not any better than the global trend. MATERIALS AND METHODS: A systematic review of medicinal plants used in the treatment of kidney disorders was conducted. Information were gathered from published scientific journals, books, reports from national, regional and international institutions, conference proceedings and other high profile intellectual resources. MeSH words like 'prevalence of kidney disorders in Africa', 'renal replacement therapy', 'nephrotoxins or nephrotoxicants', 'nephroprotective plants', 'nephroprotective plants in Nigeria or South Africa' and 'nephroprotective phytocompounds' were used to retrieve information from online databases (Google, Pubmed, MEDLINE, Science Direct, Scopus and SID). RESULTS: Interestingly, our findings revealed that phytotherapy has emerged and is being employed to protect renal functions and delay progression of renal pathological conditions into end episodes where the last resort is RRT. In fact, in recent times, Phytotherapists are not only interested in developing relatively safe, more affordable, easily accessible and potent nephroprotective formulations but also increasing awareness on the prevalence of the disease and educating the populace on the probable preventive measures. More importantly, efforts at scientifically elucidating the pharmacological efficacy of the identified nephroprotective plants yet to be validated must be intensified through informed expert opinions. Till date, there is paucity of information on the concept of nephroprotection in most developing countries where kidney disorder is a major threat. Although, the concept is just emerging in South Africa, evidences have given credence to its application in complementary and alternative system of medicine in Nigeria. CONCLUSION: This review, therefore, reawaken researchers' consciousness in the continuous search for auspicious nephroprotective plants that could potentially be excellent candidates in developing new lead drugs to manage and treat renal disorders.