Chronic Toxicity of Abelmoschus esculentus (L.) Extract in Rats

Abstract

Abelmoschus esculentus (L.) have been launched and consumed widely by the public. However, the toxicity and safety data of the plant extract are still limited. The chronic toxicity of the aqueous extract of A. esculentus was investigated through the rat's oral route for 180 days. The results revealed that health, food consumption and hematological values in all AEW-treated groups were not different from those of the control groups. However, male rats that received AEW at 1000-R mg/kg/day had significantly fewer creatinine levels, higher BUN levels and higher uric acid than the control group. Moreover, female rats that received AEW at 1000-R mg/kg/day had significantly fewer creatinine levels at 125 mg/kg/day significantly higher uric acid as well as higher sodium levels at 125, 250, and 1000-R mg/kg/day than the control group. More interestingly, the glucose level showed less than the control group in a dose-response manner. Histopathology of visceral organs indicated no significant lesion related to the extract in both male and female rats. In conclusion, AEW extract at the doses tested does not produce serious chronic toxicity in rats. Nevertheless, it should be careful using on individuals who have specific underlying conditions.