Embryotoxic effects of Poincianella ( Caesalpinia) pyramidalis leaves on pregnant rats.

We investigated the embryotoxic and fetotoxic effects of Poincianella pyramidalis (Tul.) L.P. Queiroz (syn. Caesalpinia pyramidalis Tul.) leaves on pregnant rats ( Rattus norvegicus). Pregnant rats were divided into 4 groups: G1-fed a ration containing 5% P. pyramidalis leaves beginning on day 1 of pregnancy; G2-fed a ration containing 5% P. pyramidalis leaves commencing on day 6 of pregnancy; G3-fed a ration containing 10% P. pyramidalis leaves starting on day 6 of pregnancy; G4-control group. On day 21 of pregnancy, parameters of reproductive performance were recorded. Fetal growth was measured, and fetuses were subjected to external examination and identification of skeletal anomalies. Rations containing P. pyramidalis resulted in dead or undeveloped fetuses and reduced the number, length, and weight of the fetuses. Rations also increased postimplantation losses and the frequency of skeletal anomalies. Furthermore, P. pyramidalis was also responsible for dose-dependent lesions in the placentas. In conclusion, the ingestion of P. pyramidalis promotes fetal and placental damage.