Abstract

Balanites aegyptiaca (desert date) is a widely distributed multipurpose plant traditionally used in folk medicine, with nearly all parts employed for therapeutic purposes. This study investigated the acute and sub-acute toxicity profile of methanol fruit extracts of Balanites aegyptiaca in Wistar rats. In the acute phase, administration of doses up to 6000 mg/kg produced no mortality or observable adverse effects, indicating an LD50 greater than 5000 mg/kg and suggesting that the extract is relatively safe in single high doses. In the subacute phase, rats were administered 250, 500, 750 and 1000mg/kg once daily for 28 days. All groups exhibited normal body weight gain implying that appetite and general metabolism were not impaired. Biochemical analysis, however, revealed dose dependent increase in liver enzymes (ALP, ALT, AST), direct and total bilirubin, and total protein at higher doses (500-1000 mg/kg), consistent with hepatocellular stress and possible cholestasis. Histopathological examination confirmed mild hepatocyte necrosis at 500 and 750 mg/kg, but not at 1000 mg/kg, again suggesting dose related variability. Hematological parameters (WBC, RBC, HGB, HCT, PLT) were reduced at higher doses, while lipid profiles (cholesterol, triglycerides, HDL, LDL) were elevated. Antioxidant markers including reduced glutathione, malondialdehyde and catalase were decreased in both kidney and liver tissues indicating oxidative stress. Conclusively, the methanol extract of Balanites aegyptiaca fruit is acutely nontoxic and well tolerated at low doses. However, prolong subacute exposure above 500 mg/kg produces organ specific toxicity, particularly affecting the liver and kidneys, highlighting the need for cautious therapeutic use and dose optimization.

Key words: Balanites, Kidney, Liver, Oxidative stress, plant extracts