Acute and Sub acute Toxicity Evaluation of Siddha Polyherbal Formulation Nathaichoori Chooranam

Abstract Background: Nathaichoori Chooranam (NC), a traditional Siddha polyherbal formulation, is widely used in South India due to its efficacy in treating gastrointestinal and metabolic disorders. However, comprehensive scientific evidence regarding its safety profile is limited. The current study was performed to determine NC’s safety for therapeutic application by assessing its acute and subacute oral toxicity in Wistar albino rats in compliance with Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD) recommendations. Materials and Methods: In accordance with OECD guideline 423, nine Wistar rats were given a single oral dose of 2000 mg/kg of NC for the acute toxicity evaluation. The rats were then observed for 14 days. In accordance with OECD guideline 407, the formulation was given orally to the animals for 28 days during the subacute toxicity trial. Hematological and biochemical markers, body weight, food and water intake, and clinical symptoms were all noted. A gross necropsy and a histological assessment of the essential organs were also performed to record any toxicity at the tissue level of the organs. Results: The acute toxicity research showed no fatality or notable toxicity indicators, suggesting an LD 50 of above 2000 mg/kg. When compared to the control group in the sub-acute trial, NC did not significantly alter body weight, food and water intake, or hematological or biochemical markers. The formulation’s non-toxic character at the tested levels was confirmed by histopathological investigation of the liver, kidneys, and lungs, which showed no abnormalities associated to treatment. Conclusion: In Wistar albino rats, NC is safe at doses up to 1000 mg/kg/day for 28 days; no negative side effects were noted. These results support the formulation’s continued development as a safe herbal treatment and offer initial toxicological validation for its traditional use.