Phenolic profile, in vitro antioxidant and safety evaluation of extract obtained from Citrus maxima Burm. Merr. seeds.

Citrus maxima (Burm). Merr. (CM) has been extensively documented worldwide for its diversified ethno-pharmacological activities. Although the seeds have been previously evaluated for their anxiolytic, analgesic and anti-inflammatory properties, they have not been extensively studied, unlike other plant parts. This study investigates the phytochemical composition and oral toxicity profile of ethanolic seed extract of CM (EESCM) in male and female balb/c mice. TPC and HPLC analyses confirmed the presence of phytoconstituents like naringin, caffeic acid, and hesperidin. Acute toxicity testing involved oral administration of EESCM at 1000, 2000, and 3000 mg/kg body weight (B.W.) over 14 days, revealing no observable toxicity signs. In the subacute study, mice received doses of 300, 600, and 900 mg/kg for 28 days. No significant alterations were observed in food and water intake or most hematological and biochemical parameters, except AST elevation in both sexes. There were no major histological manifestations of tissue damage in 300 and 600 mg/kg, but some changes were detected in the liver, kidney, and spleen at 900 mg/kg. The findings suggested that EESCM is reasonably nontoxic in mice. This effect could be due to the presence of potent antioxidants, which could be beneficial for providing therapeutic activities for the seeds in the future.