UTTAR PRADESH JOURNAL OF ZOOLOGY

Normally, the Ophiorrhiza species offered more diverse biological functions, including anti-cancer, antimicrobial, antiviral, and more pharmacological activities. The present study was conducted to find the toxicity of the ethanol extract of Ophiorrhiza recurvipetala, a new member of this genus. Despite the extensive use of this species, a safety evaluation is necessary. The ethanolic extract of O. recurvipetala (OREE) was used for the assessment of its toxicity by assessing physiological indices, estimating biochemical variables, and performing a histological study in Wistar rats. The animals (n=25) were divided into five groups (n=5): group 1- control (administered with 1% Tween-80) and groups 2-5 were orally treated with OREE (5, 50, 300, and 2000 mg/kg b.w.), respectively. After 14 days, mortality, body weight, food and water intake, and toxicity signs were observed. Several hematological, biochemical and histopathological parameters were measured after the end of the experimental period as per the adherence to OECD 425 guidelines. No toxicity symptoms, alterations in physiological symptoms and mortality were found in OREE-treated animals (LD50 > 2000 mg/kg). No statistically significant changes in the hematological indices, biochemical variables (lipid profile, hepatic and renal markers), and histopathology. As the LD50 value is greater than 2000 mg/kg b.w., it can be used as a traditional medicine for various ailments. The results of the present experiment offer credibility for the use of O. recurvipetala for its medical purposes. However, further sub-acute or chronic studies are needed to explore the complete toxic profile of the plant.