Sex-specific chronic toxicity of the hexane fraction of Moringa oleifera lam. leaves in Wistar rats: A 90-day oral exposure study.

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE: Moringa oleifera L. is widely used in Traditional Medicine across Africa and Asia for managing inflammation, infections, diabetes, and malnutrition. Although its aqueous and ethanolic extracts have been extensively studied, little is known about the safety of its non-polar (hexane) fraction, which may contain unique bioactive compounds. Evaluating its long-term safety is critical for its therapeutic or nutraceutical use.

AIM OF THE STUDY: This study assessed the phytochemical composition, acute toxicity, and 90-day oral sub-chronic toxicity of the hexane fraction of M. oleifera leaves (MOHX) in male and female Wistar rats.

MATERIALS AND

METHODS

MOHX was obtained via hexane partitioning of 70 % methanol leaf extract. Phytochemical screening, LC-MS, and GC-MS were used for profiling. Acute toxicity (LD50) was determined via Lorke's method. Sub-chronic dosing at 190, 380, and 760 mg/kg b.w./day was conducted for 90 days, including a satellite group. Body and organ weights, food and water intake, hematological, biochemical, and histological parameters were evaluated.

RESULTS

MOHX had an LD50 of 3808 mg/kg, indicating moderate toxicity (Hodge and Sterner). Chronic dosing caused no mortality. Significant hematological changes included increased WBC (p < 0.05) and reduced platelets (p < 0.01) in females. Biochemically, AST (U/L), ALP (U/L), and urea (mg/dL) were altered, with sex-dependent glucose (mmol/L) and electrolyte imbalances. Reproductive organ weights were reduced, and histology showed mild, reversible hepatic and gonadal alterations.

CONCLUSIONS

MOHX is moderately toxic at high doses but safe under prolonged use at lower doses. The findings support its potential use with caution and provide essential safety data for further development.