Subacute toxicity, local irritant, and allergenic effects of Hedysarum semenowii extract

Introduction. Hedysarum semenowii Regel & Herder of the genus Hedysarum L., possess a rich phyto-chemical profile and hold promise as a foundation for developing novel pharmaceuticals. Despite the recognized pharmacological activities of various Hedysarum L. species, their safety profiles have not been sufficiently studied, necessitating further investigation to evaluate their toxicity and potential adverse effects. To address this gap, a study was conducted to assess the subacute toxicity, local irritant effects, and allergenicity of Hedysarum semenowii extract, with the aim of determining its safety and therapeutic potential.

Aim. Determination of subacute toxicity, local irritant effect and allergenicity of the Hedysarum semenowii Regel & Herder extract.

Materials and methods. The subacute toxicity study was performed using outbred rats, with the extract from aerial part of the plant administered orally at doses of 500, 2000, and 5000 mg/kg over a 28-day period. The condition of the animals was monitored throughout the study. At the conclusion of the subacute toxicity evaluation, pathological changes in the liver and kidneys of the experimental animals were examined. Local irritant and allergenic effects were assessed in rats and guinea pigs, respectively, employing visual inspection and the Draize scoring system.

Results and discussion. The 28-day subacute toxicity study revealed no significant toxicity, mortality, or behavioral changes in the animals. Body weight, food consumption, and water intake remained stable across all groups. According to the results of macroscopic and microscopic examination, minor physiological changes were noted in the liver and kidneys, the severity of which correlated with the administered doses of the extract. Furthermore, the extract did not induce skin irritation or allergenic reactions in tests involving rats and guinea pigs.

Conclusion. Hedysarum semenowii extract exhibited low toxicity and an absence of irritant and allergenic effects, affirming its safety and potential for further exploration as a therapeutic agent.

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