Toxicological study of the ethanolic extract of <i>Cleome viscosa</i> leaves in Wistar rats

Abstract

Cleome viscosa is traditionally used to cure various pathologies, especially malaria, hemorrhoids, fever and headaches. However, there are few experimental data on its possible toxicity. The present study investigated the toxicity of the extract of Cleome viscosa in Wistar rats. In acute toxicity, a single administration of the extract of Cleome viscosa at 5000 mg/kg was administered orally to rats. General behavior, adverse effects and mortality were recorded up to 14 days after treatment. For subchronic toxicity, the extract at 500 mg/kg/day and 1000 mg/kg/day were administered orally to rats for 28 days. The body weight of rats was recorded daily, while hematological and biochemical parameters and relative organ weights were assessed on day 29. Neither was mortality nor induction of intoxication recorded in the treated. Subchronic administration of Cleome viscosa did not result in any significant changes in weight gain or feeding in the rats. Macroscopic observation of the organs of treated rats showed no significant change in color and texture. Also, hematological and biochemical parameters showed no significant changes. Oral administration of extract of Cleome viscosa can be considered relatively free of toxicity.