Study of the Acute Toxicity of an Aqueous Extract of the Leaves of Senna alata (L.) ROXB (Caesalpiniaceae) to Mammals

Abstract

Senna alata (L.) ROXB (Caesalpiniaceae) is a plant known and appreciated by the Ivorian population. It is commonly used to treat high blood pressure and constipation. The aim of this study was to investigate the acute toxicity of the aqueous extract of leaves of Senna alata leaves (EAqSa) in mammals. To do this, a phytochemical study of this extract was carried out. Acute toxicity was assessed by the intraperitoneal and oral routes. The oral toxicity tests were carried out in accordance with directive 423 of the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) using three (3) lots of three (3) rats, one control lot and two (2) test lots. The control lot received 2 ml of distilled water, one test lot received 2000 mg/ kg bw of EAqSa and the second test lot received 5000 mg/ kg bw of the extract in a single dose. Toxicity tests by intraperitoneal administration are carried out using six (6) lots of six (6) mices including a control lot receiving 0.5 ml of EAqSa. The five (5) test lots received 0.5 ml of doses ranging from 750 to 2000 mg/kg bw of the extract. The animals from the different test lots were observed for twenty-four (24) hours. Qualitative phytochemical analysis revealed the presence of polyphenols, sterols and polyterpenes, flavonoids, catechic tannins, saponosides, quinonic compounds and alkaloids. Acute toxicity tests show that this extract is only slightly toxic by the intraperitoneal route and non-toxic by the oral route. The oral route of administration would be the most recommended for the pharmacological use of this extract, but should be used in moderation.