Safety Profile of Meswak Root Extract on Liver, Kidney, Sexual Hormones and Hematological Parameters of Rats

Abeer Y Ibrahim,Souad E El-Gengaihi

doi:10.15835/nsb417263

Abstract

This study was conducted to investigate the safety profile of Salvadora persica (Salvadoraceae) aqueous alcoholic root extract by carrying out acute and sub-chronic toxicity assessment in order to find out any side effect of the traditionally using of these root sticks. Regarding to acute toxicity test, mice were administered the extract up to 5 g kg-1, intraperitoneally. Animals were then observed for behavioural changes; signs of toxicity, and mortality within 24 h. Surviving mice were monitored for 7 days for signs of delayed toxicity. In the sub-chronic toxicity test, rats were daily treated with the extract at a dose of 400 mg kg-1 intraperitoneally, for 30 days. At the end of the test period, hematological and biochemical parameters were determined in blood and serum samples with determination of vital organs weights. In the acute toxicity test, the extract was practically non-toxic showing no mortality and visible signs of delayed toxicity. The LD50, given intraperitoneally, was estimated to be 4 g kg-1. Administration of extract (at a dose of 400 mg Kg-1 b.wt.) to male and female rats for 30 days did not produce any significant (P < 0.05) effect on hematological and most biochemical parameters also vital organs weights. The root extract showed adverse effects on sexual hormones, by increasing estrogen secretion and reducing testosterone level in male rats. At the same time, the extract reduces progesterone level in female satellite group. Overall, Meswak aqueous extract is safe concerning liver and kidney functions and hematological assessments; however, it induces reversal effect on sexual hormones levels determined in sera.

Highlights

Salvadora persica L, Meswak, is an ever green shrub and perennial halophyte capable of growing under extremely conditions
This study aims to find out the acute toxicity and safety of S. persica alcoholic extract prepared from root sticks of plants grown in Egypt
Sub-chronic toxicity study Body weight There were no significant differences in the weights of rats treated with extract at 400 mg kg-1 for 30 days compared to controls

Summary

Introduction

Salvadora persica L, Meswak, is an ever green shrub and perennial halophyte capable of growing under extremely conditions. It is traditionally used in Islamic countries as tooth brush due to its antimicrobial and astringent properties. The Meswak, a traditional chewing stick for cleaning teeth, is made from the plant Salvadora persica. Agreeable, aromatic, slightly pungent and peppery taste They can be eaten raw, cooked, or dried and stored. For religious and cultural reasons, using Meswak is firmly established and widespread in most Muslim countries It possesses high potential economic value as a source of oil and medicinal compounds (Maggio et al, 2000). This study aims to find out the acute toxicity and safety of S. persica alcoholic extract prepared from root sticks of plants grown in Egypt

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