Toxicological assessment of the aqueous extract of Juniperus oxycedrus L. on acute and subacute toxicities in rats

Abstract

Juniperus oxycedrus L. (J. oxycedrus) has a rich historical background in herbal remedies to treating digestive system abnormalities. However, no comprehensive evaluation of its potential toxic effects has been conducted. The current investigation aimed to evaluate the acute and subacute toxicity of an aqueous extract of J. oxycedrus (AEJO). AEJO was prepared by the conventional Moroccan methods by decoction the arial part of the plant. The acute and subacute toxicity tests were conducted in mice and rats, respectively. Acute toxicity tests showed that the extract was not toxic even at high doses of 5000 mg/kg. In the subacute study, no detectable indications of toxicity or mortality were observed and there were no notable deviations in food intake or water consumption among all rats. However, changes in body weight of animals treated with 1000 and 2000 mg/kg underwent a significant decrease. AEJO administration decreased platelet number, elevated levels of alanine aminotransferase and alkaline phosphatase, and reduced albumin levels. Histological examination revealed normal renal parenchyma despite increased creatinine. It also showed binucleation, and hepatocyte vacuolation. The results indicate that AEJO has considerable tolerance for consumption, but repeated use can affect hepatocytes and kidneys. Therefore, additional analyses, such as subchronic, chronic, and neurotoxic studies, are required before using this plant in clinical research.