In Vivo Evaluation of Genotoxicity and Antioxidant Capacity of Ajuga Orientalis L. (Lamiaceae) Leaf Extracts

Ajuga orientalis L. (Lamiaceae) is a fragrant herb native to the Eastern Mediterranean region, widely used in traditional healing practices in Jordan and neighboring countries. Despite its extensive use, there is a lack of toxicological studies on its leaf extracts. This study aims to address this gap by evaluating the genotoxic potential of ethanolic and aqueous leaf extracts using a micronucleus (MN) assay on mice DNA, alongside assessing their antioxidant status. The median lethal dose 50% (LD50) was tested in ten groups of sixty male Balb/c mice to determine the acute toxicity of A. orientalis leaf extracts. Four groups of male Balb/c mice (n=6) were used to evaluate micronucleus (MN) formation and total antioxidant capacity for each extract. Each group received daily intraperitoneal injections of one of the following concentrations: 4000, 2000, 1000, and 500 mg/kg over 28 days. Additionally, three control groups were included for comparison purposes. Peripheral blood samples were screened for MN formation, and liver samples were assessed for total antioxidant capacity. Results revealed an LD50 of 4000 mg/kg for both extracts, alongside a significant dose-dependent increase in MN formation and lower antioxidant capacity compared to controls. The findings indicate the genotoxicity of A. orientalis leaf extracts in Balb/c mice, urging caution in human consumption. Further research is warranted to comprehensively assess their safety and toxicity, especially considering their traditional medicinal use.