The Possible Side Effects of Ziziphus spina-christi Extract on the Liver, Kidneys of Female Rats

Abstract

Background: It has become important to provide advice and education to herbal remedies users to increase evidence-based awareness of their potential side effects. This research explores the side effects of the Ziziphus spina-christi (ZSC) aqueous extract on biochemical indicators and histopathological changes of the liver, kidneys of female rats. Methods: Fifteen female rats (five in each group) were orally administrated with the extract of ZSC at dosages of 10, 50 and 100 mg/kg bw/day for 14 days. Five other females were considered a control group, given only water. Clinical observations of toxicity were recorded during fifteen days. The biochemical biomarkers of liver (ALT and ALP enzymes) and kidneys (creatinine, uric acid and blood urea nitrogen) were evaluated in blood serum. Result: In addition, the histopathological alterations in organs were evaluated. The results did not show any clear toxicity on the animal’s weight or body organs. The alkaline phosphatase was elevated in female rats who received 50 mg and 100 mg of ZSC aqueous extract in comparison with the control group. The results did not show any significant changes in the serum glucose, BUN, creatinine, uric acid, alanine aminotransferase levels in female rats who received ZSC extract for 14 days. In conclusion, the results showed indications of side effects of the ZSC extract on liver enzymes after treating female rats with ZSC extract for 14 days.