Toxic potential of ethanolic extract of Acacia nilotica [Garad] in rats

ABSTRACT

The study aimed to investigate acute and sub-acute toxic potential of ethanolic extract of Acacia nilotica [Garad] in rats. LD50 of Garad was determined. Changes in behavioral response, induced by sub-acute treatments were recorded. Elevated urea, creatinine, ALT [GPT] and AST [GOT] in plasma were taken as evidence for impaired kidney and liver function. LD50 of Garad extract was found to be 215.36 mg/kg [124.84-317.47]. Regarding sub acute treatment, observations on seventh and fourteenth days showed slight to moderate sedation at various doses. On day 21 no behavioral changes were recorded. However, a treatment for three weeks induced significant elevation in urea and ALT [p<0.05]. It can be concluded that the ethanolic extract of Garad has got some toxicity when administered sub acutely and intraperitoneally in rats, particularly at high dose [60 mg/kg]