Sub-chronic toxicity study of arecae semen aqueous extract in Wistar rats.

摘要: Abstract Ethnopharmacological relevance Arecae semen, the ripe seed of Areca catechu L., has been used as vermifuge and digestant in traditional Chinese medicine (TCM). However, potential toxicity effect arecae semen not completely investigated. The aim study present was aimed at evaluating sub-chronic by oral administration Wistar rats. Materials methods A total 120 rats were randomly divided into 4 groups (15 males 15 females per group). treated given aqueous extract (ASAE) dose 750, 1500 4500 mg/kg/day respectively, control group received distilled water only. their consumed feed weighted every 3 days. clinical changes mortality observed recorded daily. Hematological parameters, biochemical organ weights, urinalysis histopathological examination all tested end 30-day treatment period another 10-day recovery period. Results Deaths, weight loss, diarrhea, sluggish action, tremors body curl up 4500 mg/kg during study. relative weights liver testis male significantly different compared with As for laboratory there no significant differences study, except white blood cell count (WBC), aspartate aminotransferase (AST), alanine (ALT), albumin (ALB), urea nitrogen (BUN), creatinine (Cr), glucose (GLU) cholesterol (CHOL). In addition, results intake showed difference group. Conclusions that ASAE 750 mg/kg/day safe, but long-term high dosage toxic. Moreover, toxic ingredients including arecoline, also some other compounds should be researched.