Safety Evaluation of Crude Ethanol Extract of Waltheria Indica Linn. Root In Male Wistar Rats

Abstract

Safety evaluation of Waltheria indica Linn. root was carried out in Wistar rats. Twenty adult male Wistar rats were randomly divided into four groups (n=5); A–D. Group A served as control group while groups B, C and D were administered with 200, 400 and 800 mg/Kg of crude ethanol extract of Waltheria indica Linn. root. After 28 days of administration, the rats were sacrificed and blood samples were collected and serum prepared. Haematological and biochemical parameters, as well as serum electrolyte were determined according to standard procedures. The 200 mg/Kg of Waltheria indica Linn. root caused the highest percentage increase in body weight. The kidney was also significantly increased at 400 mg/kg. The total WBC and lymphocytes counts were significantly increased at 400 mg/kg. The serum levels of ALT and chloride were significantly increased at 800 mg/kg. Waltheria indica Linn. root also caused hepatic necrosis and renal tubular degeneration in Wistar rats. Therefore, Waltheria indica Linn. root should be used with caution especially at higher dose despite its therapeutic potentials.