ABSTRACT
Hydroquinone [HQ] is a myelotoxin that is found in many foods and is also formed through the metabolism of benzene. HQ is genotoxic in several in vitro and in vivo test systems, inducing micronuclei [MN], sister-chromatid exchange [SCE], and chromosomal aberrations. The aim of the current study was to explore the protective effect of Zizyphus jujuba and Origanum majorana extracts against HQ-induce genotoxicity and histological changes in male mice. Six groups of mice included the control group, HQ-treated group [125 mg/kg b.w] and the groups treated with the extracts alone[0.5g/kg b.w] or in combination with HQ. The results indicated that treatment with HQ resulted in significant clastogenetic effects and histological changes typical to those reported in the literature. Both extracts exhibited a protection against HQ-induced cytogenesis and histological changes. Moreover, Z. jujuba extract was effective than O. majorana extract. It could be concluded that both extracts may be useful for people especially those who occupationally exposed to benzene or its metabolites