The effect of borage (Echium amoenum) on the mouse heart and hematology parameters.

BACKGROUND

there has been considerable interest in the potential health benefits of borage. Little information is available regarding safety of this plant. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the impact of borage on the mouse heart.

METHODS

Different amounts of borage extract were injected on mice. The mice randomly divided into 4 group including group1 (Control group without injection), group2, 3 and 4 that received 12.5 mg/kg, 25 mg/kg and 50 mg/kg respectively. Oxidative stress parameters (lipid peroxidation, total glutathione groups assay and cupric assay) and biochemical (Creatine kinase activity and total cholesterol) and hematology parameters were evaluated. Furthermore, histopathology study was carried out of heart tissues.

RESULTS

we found that there was no significant difference in oxidative stress parameters and biochemical parameters between control group and the groups received different amounts of borage extract. There was also no changes in histopathology study. In blood parameters significant changes was observed in erythrocytes, hematocrit and hemoglobin in high does.

CONCLUSIONS

This article was suggested that the borage did not make significant damages to heart tissue in mice model. In hematology factors significant changes was observed in erythrocytes and related parameters. Therefore, hematotoxicity of consumption this plant should be considered at high doses.