Toxicological study of Semecarpus anacardium nut extract

Area of Science:

• Pharmacology
• Toxicology
• Phytochemistry

Background:

• Semecarpus anacardium (marking nut) is traditionally used in medicine.
• The chloroform-soluble fraction of S. anacardium nuts contains potentially bioactive compounds.
• Understanding the toxicological profile is essential before therapeutic application.

Purpose of the Study:

• To determine the safe, non-toxic dose of the chloroform-soluble fraction of Semecarpus anacardium nuts in rats.
• To establish the dose-dependent toxicity of this fraction.
• To provide data relevant to its potential use in cancer chemotherapy.

Main Methods:

• Administration of the chloroform-soluble fraction of S. anacardium nuts to rats at varying doses (50-400 mg/kg).
• Observation of toxicity effects, including growth inhibition and mortality.
• Calculation of the median lethal dose (LD50) and its equivalent for body surface area.

Main Results:

• The fraction exhibited toxicity at all tested dose levels (50-400 mg/kg).
• Toxicity was dose-dependent, with higher doses leading to rapid mortality.
• A dose of 230 mg/kg resulted in 50% mortality in rats, equivalent to 1380 mg/m2 body surface area.

Conclusions:

• The chloroform-soluble fraction of Semecarpus anacardium nuts is toxic to rats in a dose-dependent manner.
• A specific dose (230 mg/kg) is identified as causing 50% mortality.
• These findings are valuable for future research into the fraction's use in cancer chemotherapy.