Assessing effects of <i>Equisetum ramosissimum</i> extract on hematological and serum biochemical parameters in pregnant Sprague-Dawley rats

Abstract

Background: As a medicinal herb, Equisetum ramossisemum has been utilized for centuries as a diuretic and has been recommended for different disorders. The aim of this study was to investigate the maternal toxicity of aerial parts of Equisetum ramosissimum extract on pregnant Sprague-Dawley rats. Methods: Females were mated and the coupling time was recorded at gestation day 0-E0. Four experimental groups I, II, III, and IV, received daily gavage doses of 0 mg, 500 mg, 250 mg, and 125 mg/kg, respectively, of Equisetum ramosissimum extract. Pregnant rats were observed for mortality and toxicological effects during daily treatment. On day E20, samples of blood were withdrawn from the retro-orbital sinus under light ether anaesthesia for haematological and clinical chemistry examinations. Results: Data analyses detected significant differences in biochemical and haematological parameters between the control group and other groups receiving extract. Conclusion: This study constitutes a first approach to defining adverse effects of using Equisetum ramosissimum as a medicinal plant during pregnancy. Daily gavage doses of Equisetum ramosissimum extract produced significant differences in biochemical and haematological parameters in pregnant Sprague-Dawley rats as compared to the control group.