Acute Toxicity Study of Annona reticulata Leaves Extract in Swiss Albino Mice

Abstract

Background: Annona reticulata (AR) or custard apple belongs to family Annonaceae. The plant is traditionally used to treat various ailments and is also known for its medicinal properties. Objectives: The aim of this research work was to evaluate the safety of usage of AR leaf extract in nutraceutical formulations through acute toxicity study. Materials and Methods: The leaves of AR were cleaned, dried and powdered; and aqueous extract (ARAQ) was prepared. The acute toxicity test was conducted using female swiss albino mice. As per Organization for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) 423 guideline, a single dose of 2000 mg/kg body weight of ARAQ was administered via oral gavage for 14 days. Mortality, signs of toxicity, body weight and behavioral changes were observed during the study period. Following the 14-day treatment, the mice were sacrificed for hematological, biochemical and histopathology studies. Results: No mortality, signs of toxicity and changes in behavior were observed at 2000 mg/kg body weight. In addition, no significant differences (p>0.05) were noticed in body and organ weight between the control and ARAQ treated groups. Also, there were no significant elevations observed in hematological and biochemical blood parameters. Further, histopathological examination revealed normal architecture of liver, kidney and pancreas. No significant adverse effects were observed in these organs. Conclusion: Overall, ARAQ did not produce any significant toxic effect in mice and the results also indicate the safety of the oral administration of ARAQ at 2000 mg/kg body weight. Hence, ARAQ can be utilized in nutraceutical formulations.