Sub-chronic Hepatotoxicity of Anacardium occidentale (Anacardiaceae) Inner Stem Bark Extract in Rats
T J N Okonkwo1, O Okorie, J M Okonta
1Pharmaceutical and Medicinal Chemistry Department, University of Port Harcourt, East-West Road, Choba, Port Harcourt, Rivers State, Nigeria.
Indian Journal of Pharmaceutical Sciences
|December 29, 2010
Summary
Anacardium occidentale bark extract showed acute toxicity (LD50 of 2.154g/kg) and elevated liver enzymes (ALT, AST) in sub-chronic studies. However, hepatocyte function remained largely unaffected in Wistar rats.
Area of Science:
- Pharmacology
- Toxicology
- Ethnobotany
Background:
- Anacardium occidentale extracts are traditionally used for cardiovascular disorders in Nigeria.
- Assessing the toxicity of this plant extract is crucial due to its widespread use.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the toxicity profile of Anacardium occidentale inner stem bark extract.
- To determine the effects of sub-chronic administration on liver function parameters.
Main Methods:
- Extraction of Anacardium occidentale inner stem bark using 80% methanol.
- Phytochemical screening, antinutrient analysis, and heavy metal quantification.
- Acute toxicity testing (LD50) in mice and sub-chronic oral administration in Wistar rats at 1.44 and 2.87 g/kg.
Main Results:
- Phytochemical analysis revealed high tannins, moderate saponins, and trace reducing sugars.
- Antinutrient levels: tannins (5.75%), oxalates (2.50%), saponins (2.00%), phytate (0.25%), cyanide (0.03%). Iron detected (8.92 mg/100 g); lead and cadmium were non-detectable.
- Acute oral LD50 was 2.154 g/kg. Sub-chronic administration significantly increased alanine aminotransaminase and aspartate aminotransaminase levels, indicating potential liver damage, but did not significantly affect alkaline phosphatase, total bilirubin, or total protein.
Conclusions:
- Sub-chronic administration of Anacardium occidentale inner stem bark extract at the tested doses did not significantly impair hepatocyte function in Wistar rats.
- Elevated ALT and AST suggest potential liver injury, warranting further investigation into the extract's long-term effects and mechanisms of action.
