Single dose oral toxicity of methanol extract of baobab (Adansonia digitata Linn) fruit shell on biochemical and histopathological parameters in mice

Objectives: The natural origin of medicinal plants does not guaranteed their safety, as there are no sufficient studies on the safety, efficacy and toxicity to support their beneficial claims. Hence, this study aimed at investigating the oral acute toxicity of Adansonia digitata L. fruit shell extract on mice. Methods: Maceration method was employed for the extraction of Adansonia digitata fruit shell using methanol. The extract was then screened of its phytochemical constituents both qualitatively and quantitatively. Lorke’s method was followed for the toxicity study, the mice were observed for clinical signs of toxicity and mortality. Further, serum was analysed for liver and kidney functions biomarkers besides the histology of the liver, kidney and cerebellum.  Results: No single death was recorded and no sign of toxicity persisted for more than 2 hours post administration to the extracts up to 5000mg/kg. Therefore, the LD50 of Adansonia digitata fruit shell is above 5000mg/kg. Additionally, no changes were observed in the weights as well as the relative organs weight of the mice. Further, no statistically significant changes were seen in their liver and kidney functions biomarkers, besides the relative intact histological appearance of their liver, kidney and cerebellum.    Conclusions: the oral acute toxicity of methanol extract of Adansonia digitata fruit shell is above 5000mg/kg, hence it is relatively safe to use it for its medicinal purpose. However, a longer study duration is recommended to evaluate its toxic effects on fertility, teratogenicity, fertility and carcinogenic potentials.