Phytochemical screening and toxicological evaluation of sargassum wightii greville in wistar rats

INTRODUCTION: The present study was conducted to identify the phytoconstituents present in different extracts of Sargassum wightii and to assess the toxicity of its ethanol extract.


METHODS: Successive solvent extraction and total ethanol extraction of Sargassum wightii were performed and preliminary phytochemical screening was carried out. Acute toxicity study of ethanol extract of Sargassum wightii (ESW) was carried out. Subchronic toxicity study of ESW was carried out with the doses of 100, 200, 400 mg/kg. The animals were observed for changes in body weight, food and water intake. At the end of study, relative weight of vital organs were noted followed by histopathological examinations. Various hematological, biochemical estimations were also carried out.

RESULTS: Phytochemical screening of Sargassum wightii revealed the presence of alkaloids, carbohydrates, glycosides, phenolic compounds and tannins. ESW did not induce any mortality or pre-terminal death in the acute toxicity study. There were no significant difference in body weight, relative weight of vital organs (except brain), food and water intake compared to the control group. Histopathological examination showed normal architecture suggesting absence of pathological lesions. Hematological and biochemical parameters were also found to be comparable to the control group except reduction in glucose and cholesterol level which is postulated to be beneficial.
DISCUSSION AND CONCLUSION: Presence of various phytoconstituents in Sargassum wightii is evident that it could be a potential source for treating different ailments. No significant toxic effects were observed with the treatment of ESW. Thus, it is proposed to be safe and can be recommended for long term treatment.