The Journal of Phytopharmacology, 2018;7(6):460-463 DOI:10.31254/phyto.2018.7601

Research Article

Teratogenic potential of Urtica massaica (Mildbr.) and Croton megalocarpus (Hutch) in mice

Wabai W. Yvonne¹ , Mwonjoria J.K. Maina¹ , Njagi E. Mwaniki¹

Wabai W. Yvonne,Mwonjoria J.K. Maina,Njagi E. Mwaniki

1. Department of Biochemistry, Microbiology and Biotechnology, Kenyatta University, Nairobi, Kenya

*Author to whom correspondence should be addressed.

Received: 9th November, 2018 / Accepted: 23rd November, 2018

Abstract

Urtica massaica (Urticaceae) and Croton megalocarpus are used either as vegetables or as food additives and as medicine in traditional African societies. However, in spite of the widespread consumption of these plants as folklore remedies and for diet, there is a scarcity of scientific data on their teratogenicity. Hence this study sought to assess the teratogenic effects of these plant extracts in an animal model. The study was conducted using Swiss albino mice. The extracts of these plants were administered orally in mice which were then euthanized. The weights of the gravid uterus and pups, as well as the number of pups, were determined. The pups were examined for gross malformations. The data set was analysed using one-way analysis of variance and Tukey as the post-Anova test. P < 0.05 was the limit of significance. U. massaica and C. megalocarpus caused 40% and 20% fetal partial resorption respectively. The latter also caused microcephaly and polyhydramnios. Hence, U. massaica leaves and C. megalocarpus stem extracts exhibited teratogenic activity and should be used with care during pregnancy.