Safety & Toxicological Determination of Vrikshamla as Anti-Obesity

Abstract

The aim of the current research was the safety and toxicological determination of Vrikshamla as an anti-obesity through acute oral toxicity. The Vrikshamla was purchased from the local market in Varanasi. After assessing the drug's solubility characteristics, the substance was pulverized into a powder for extraction using an appropriate solvent system (water). Wistar rats weighing 130-150g of both sexes were procured from the Animal House of Shri Ramnath Singh Mahavidhyalaya (Pharmacy) at Gormi, Bhind (MP). The animals are kept under optimal conditions, at room temperatures of 25±1°C, with a 12-hour light/dark cycle. It was evaluated for safety and toxicity through various parameters, i.e., phytochemical screening, acute oral toxicity, primary eye irritation in rabbits, primary dermal irritation in rabbits, and acute dermal toxicity in mice. As a result, the percentage yield was calculated as 68.75% when extracted using distilled water. It showed alkaloids and terpenoids in moderate amounts. However, carbohydrates and tannins were favorable in the Vrikshamla formulation. Saponins, Phenols, and starch were found absent. It was observed at 24 hours and 14 days, where no toxicity was noted, with 100% of the animal's survival rate. The Vrikshamla formulation was suggested to be safe even at high doses. The reaction was observed for 1 hour, 1 day, and 10 days. In all the time intervals, iritis, corneal opacity, and conjunctivitis were observed as 0 (zero). Thus, it might be said that the Vrikshamla formulation is safe regarding ocular malfunctioning. It did not show any harmful effects in the eyes of the experimental rabbit. This study indicates that Vrikshamla may be recommended as a recognized treatment for obesity management and the reduction of detrimental cholesterol, hence promoting improved health and longevity, pending more successful research.