Evaluation of biochemical and hematological parameters in pregnant rats treated with aqueous extract of piper methysticum: preliminary observations

Aims: To evaluate biochemistry and hematological parameters in pregnant rats treated with aqueous extract of Piper methysticum. Methods: Forty pregnant rats were randomly distributed into two groups: Control that received 1ml of distilled water and treated with 10mg of aqueous extract of kava/kg/body weight, by gavage, twice a day, from day-6 to 7 post insemination (day 1 = spermatozoa visible in the vaginal smear). Euthanize was performed by exsanguinations via cardiac punction under anesthesia (ketamine plus xylazine) at 14 post insemination day. Results: Treated animal presents leucopenia and higher concentration of TGO. No histopathologic alteration was observed in the liver. Conclusion: Th e Piper methysticum aqueous extract seems do not cause hepatotoxicity, but cause leucopenia and increase the plasmatic level of TGO.