Genomic and Cytotoxic Damage in Wistar Rats and Their Newborns After Transplacental Exposure to Hibiscus sabdariffa Hydroalcoholic Extract

<i>Hibiscus sabdariffa (Hs)</i> is a tropical plant with a wide range of therapeutic properties; however, few studies have evaluated its potential adverse effects. In the present study, the cytotoxic and genotoxic effects of the hydroalcoholic extract of <i>Hs</i> (EH<i>Hs</i>) dried calyces administered during gestation were assessed in Wistar rats and their newborns using the micronucleus assay in peripheral blood and the quantification of malondialdehyde (MDA) in various tissues. Three different doses of EH<i>Hs</i> (500, 1000, and 2000 mg/Kg) were administered orally to five pregnant Wistar rats per group during the final days of gestation (days 16-20). Blood samples were collected every 24 h during the last six days of gestation and from the neonates at birth, along with tissue samples for MDA quantification. EH<i>Hs</i> induced myelosuppression in the mothers and genotoxicity in their newborns, as well as cytotoxicity, evidenced by increased MDA levels in serum, liver, and kidneys of the mothers, and in the liver, kidneys, brain, and muscle tissues of the neonates. These findings provide important insights into the safety profile of <i>Hs</i>, and its use is therefore recommended only under the supervision of a qualified healthcare professional.