Toxic Activity of Tinospora bakis (Irg al-hagar) Roots in Wistar Albino Rats

Aim: This study aims to evaluate the toxic effect of Tinospora bakis roots on body weight, hematology, biochemistry and histopathology on rats.

Methodology: Twenty four male Wistar albino rats were divided into four groups, each of 6. For sub chronic toxicity, the aqueous extract was administered orally at a dose of 50, 500 and 2000 mg/ kg -for four weeks- to group 2, 3 and 4, respectively whereas Group 1 was kept as a control. Clinical signs and mortality were observed daily. The weights of the animals were recorded weekly. Blood samples were collected for hematology and biochemistry analysis. Specimens of liver and kidney were kept in 10% formalin for histopathology.

Results: The results revealed that all animals in the four groups survived, and no mortality was recorded. The body weights of the animals increased in group 2 and 3, decreased in group 4. The extract had no adverse effects on hematology, biochemistry and histology of rats at doses of 50 and 500 mg/ kg, but caused significant alteration at dose 2000 mg/kg. White blood cells (WBCs) were significantly (P<0.05) increased; Red blood cells (RBCs), Hemoglobin (Hb) and Packed cell volume (PCV) were significantly (P<0.05) decreased. Total protein and albumin were significantly (P< 0.05) decreased whereas Urea, creatinine, Alanin Transaminase (ALT), Asparate Transaminase (AST) and Alkaline phosphatase were significantly elevated. These findings correlated with histopathological changes on liver and kidney.

Conclusion: The low doses of T. bakis aqueous extract were not toxic, but the high dose cause hepato-renal toxicity.