Toxicological studies on the ethanolic extract of Crotalaria juncea seeds in rats

The effect of the ethanolic extract of Crotalaria juncea Linn. (Leguminosae) seeds has been assessed on liver, kidney, spleen and adrenals of adult rats. Results revealed that its administration at a dose of 200 mg/kg caused significant alterations. Wet weight of the organs was reduced. Protein and glycogen contents in all the organs were decreased significantly, whereas, the activity of acid and alkaline phosphatase was increased. Histology revealed remarkable disintegration necrosis and degeneration in the liver. Renal tubular cells showed degeneration and exfoliation. Adrenals showed hypertrophy in the region of zona glomerulosa. In the spleen the number of megakaryotic cells and lymphocytes was increased. Administration of the extract therefore not only damaged the liver but other vital organs too were also affected.