Toxicological Evaluation of the Aqueous Extract of <I>Mondia whitei</I> Fruit On Haematological, Hepato-Renal Biochemical and Histopathological Indices in Wistar Rats

Abstract

Mondia whitei is used traditionally for treating hypertension and erectile dysfunction; however, the toxicological profile of its fruit has not been fully established. This study evaluated the toxicological effect of the aqueous extract of Mondia whitei fruit (AEMWF) in Wistar rats. In the acute toxicity study, a single dose (5000 mg/kg) of AEMWF was administered orally to rats. In the sub-acute toxicity test, rats were administered AEMWF orally at 500, 750, and 1000 mg/kg for 28 days. Behavioural and physiological parameters were recorded weekly. After sacrificing the rats via anaesthesia (diethyl ether), blood and vital organs were obtained for haematological, biochemical, and histological assessments. No signs of toxicity were observed in the acute toxicity study. In the sub-acute toxicity study, no significant changes were observed in the body weight of rats, except for 750 mg/kg AEMWF administered male rats, where a significant (p < 0.05) increase was observed at week 3 compared to the control. No significant difference was observed in the haematopoietic system, serum liver and kidney function markers, and tissue oxidative stress biomarkers. However, results showed a significant (p < 0.05) decrease in urea level in female rats administered 500 mg/kg AEMWF, and a significant (p < 0.05) increase in albumin level in rats administered 1000 mg/kg AEMWF, when compared with the control. Histological changes were only noted at 1000 mg/kg AEMWF. The AEMWF at 500 and 750 mg/kg could be considered safe for consumption. Hence, this study recommends chronic toxicological testing for future studies.