Subchronic toxicity evaluation of the hydroethanolic extract from Endopleura uchi (Huber) Cuatrec in Wistar rats

Abstract

Endopleura uchi (Huber) Cuatrec. (Humiriaceae) is a species from Brazilian Amazon rainforest, popularly used against menstrual disorders and uterine inflammation. This study aimed to evaluate the subchronic toxicity of hydroethanolic extract from E. uchi (EHEEu) in Wistar rats based on biochemical and hematological parameters. Rats were treated with daily doses of EHEEu (500 mg/kg - gavage), and then hematological and biochemical parameters were observed. The results shows that the treatment performed produced no signs of toxicity or death, as well as no changes in weight gain or daily intake of water and food. Biochemical and hematological parameters were not modified by EHEEu administration, with the exception of erythrocyte index of rats (males) in the treated group, however, it was not assigned clinical relevance once it remained within the reference range for the species. Thus, subchronic administration of EHEEu produced no toxic effects in Wistar rats. Key words: Endopleura uchi, subchronic treatment, hematology, biochemistry.