Aqueous Extract of <scp> <i>Ricinus communis</i> </scp> as a Protective Agent Against Mitomycin C‐Induced Genotoxicity and Oxidative Stress in Swiss Albino Mice: Implications for Complementary Medicine

ABSTRACT Aim This study aims to assess the genoprotective and antioxidative effects of aqueous extract of Ricinus communis leaves (AERC) against mitomycin C‐induced DNA damage and oxidative stress, exploring its potential as a complementary therapy to mitigate chemotherapy‐induced toxicity. Method Using an aqueous extract dosed at 200 mg/kg bw and 400 mg/kg bw for over 14 days, DNA protective effects against mitomycin C (MMC)‐induced genotoxicity were evaluated by micronucleus assay followed by biochemical assays and histopathological studies. Results Results from micronucleus and comet assays revealed a marked reduction in MMC‐induced DNA damage, with the extract group showing a percentage of polychromatic erythrocyte with one or more micronuclei (MNPCE%) values of 1.68 ± 0.26 and decreased Tail DNA content (1.86 ± 0.3) and damage index (41.53 ± 6.29). Antioxidant assays further highlighted AERC as a robust free radical scavenger, evidenced by reduced lipid peroxidation (0.28 ± 0.02), increased glutathione levels (0.141 ± 0.015), and enhanced superoxide dismutase activity (5.365 ± 0.095). Histopathological analysis demonstrated the extract's safety profile, showing no adverse effects on hepatic or renal tissues, while partially mitigating MMC‐induced damage. Conclusion This work, supported by phytochemical profiling via LC–MS, uniquely explores the mutagenic, antimutagenic, and antioxidant effects of AERC in Swiss albino mice, providing crucial evidence for its therapeutic applications.