Effects of Ingested Baccharis dracunculifolia D.C. (Asteraceae) Extract in the Liver of Prochilodus lineatus Fish

Abstract

Baccharis dracunculifolia, popularly known in Brazil as “alecrim-do-campo”, is widely recognized for its therapeutic potential. The extract of its leaves is used for liver problems, stomach disorders and others. The objective of the present study was to perform a histochemical analysis of curimbata fish livers to evaluate the potential effects and risks of the ingestion of B. dracunculifolia. Thirty-two animals were divided into two experimental groups in duplicate: Control group (regular food) and B. dracunculifolia Treated group (food added with B. dracunculifolia). The fishes were collected on the 14th and 21st days after the treatment period of 21 days. The histological alterations were evaluated using the semiquantitative methods Mean Value of Alterations (MVA), Histopathological Alteration Index (HAI) and Image J®. HAI and MAV showed that the extract caused slight but statistically significant damages, widely distributed throughout the organ. The results showed significant hepatic alterations caused by the ingestion of B. dracunculifolia extract.