# Effects of Lebanese Folk Herbs on Adult Male Rats: Hepatic and Renal Toxicity, Histological, and Biochemical Studies

## TL;DR

This study found that some Lebanese folk herbs caused liver and kidney damage in rats after long-term use.

## Contribution

The study is the first to investigate the combined and chronic toxicity of these herbs in rats.

## Key findings

- Herb extracts increased liver and kidney oxidative stress markers in rats.
- FH and ES showed the highest liver toxicity, while ES and MIX caused the most kidney damage.
- Histological changes confirmed organ damage from the herbs.

## Abstract

Background/Objectives: Lepidium sativum, Ferula hermonis, Origanum majorana, and Eruca sativa are frequently consumed as a traditional Middle Eastern medicine to promote health and treat various diseases. However, concerns have been raised about their possible harmful effect in humans. Limited research has examined their chronic toxicity in rats, and their combined exposure effects are still unknown. Hence, this research aimed to evaluate their potential hepato- and nephrotoxic effects. Methods: Aqueous extracts of the selected plants, with a dose of 100 mg/kg, were administered separately and as a mixture daily for 60 days. Blood and tissue were sampled from 28 rats, and organ weight, biochemical markers for kidney and liver function, and histopathological examination were assessed. Results: The results indicated increased liver weight, liver and kidney malondialdehyde, alanine transaminase, and urea, and decreased serum creatinine and kidney glutathione levels. Additionally, histological examinations showed liver and kidney architectural damage. Further, the extent of toxicity varied among the plants. Conclusions: In conclusion, the results revealed that the corresponding plant extracts’ oral administration affects biological functions and promotes liver and kidney oxidative damage in rats, with FH and ES exhibiting the highest level of liver toxicity and ES and MIX showing the highest level of kidney toxicity.