Evaluation of Acute and Sub-Chronic Toxicity Effects of Jacobaea maritima Aerial Parts Extract

The aim of this study was to assess the safety profile of the ethanolic extract of Jacobaea maritima aerial parts (JMA) through acute and sub-chronic oral toxicity studies, following OECD 425 and 407 guidelines. For the acute toxicity study, rats were administered daily doses of JMA (1000, 2500, 4000, and 5000 mg/kg) for 14 days, with a control group receiving normal saline. In sub-chronic toxicity study, rats were administered daily doses of 100, 250, 400, and 550 mg/kg of JMA for 90 days, with the control group again receiving normal saline. The animals were monitored for mortality, body weight changes, food and water intake, and general behavior. Hematological and biochemical assessments were conducted to evaluate red blood cell, platelet, and white blood cell counts, as well as liver and kidney functions. Histopathological examinations of vital organs, including the liver, kidneys, and heart, were performed. In the acute toxicity study, no mortality or significant toxic effects were observed, indicating an LD50 greater than 5000 mg/kg. In the sub-chronic toxicity study, there were no significant changes in body weight, food and water intake, or general behavior. Hematological analysis showed dose-dependent increases in red blood cell, platelet, and white blood cell counts within normal ranges. Biochemical assessments revealed slight fluctuations in total protein and glucose levels, but liver and kidney functions remained stable, as indicated by stable levels of ALT, AST, ALP, and creatinine. Histopathological examinations of vital organs revealed no significant abnormalities. The JMA exhibited no signs of toxicity and was well tolerated in both acute and sub-chronic oral toxicity studies. These findings suggest that JMA is a promising candidate for further pharmacological exploration due to its safety profile.