Evaluating Toxicity Profile of Garlic (Allium sativum) on the Liver, Kidney and Heart Using Wistar Rat Model

Background: The medicinal values of Allium sativum has been extensively described in a number of studies. Additionally, it has shown antimicrobial activity against a wide spectrum of microorganism; bacteria, fungi and parasites. The widespread benefit of garlic for its medicinal properties has resulted in its increased usage thus justifying the need to study the potential toxicity of garlic extracts on vital organs of the body. The present study aims to evaluate the toxicity profile of garlic extract in Wistar rats.

Materials and Methods: Thirty five male rats of Wistar strains were randomly grouped into seven (A-G) of five animals each. Animals in the control group received 1ml of physiological saline intraperitoneally for 38 days. Group A (5 mice) were given 250 mg/kg of garlic extract daily. Group B (5 mice) received 300 mg/kg of garlic extract daily, Group C (5 mice) received 350 mg/kg of garlic extract daily, Group D (5 mice) received 400 mg/kg of garlic extract daily. Group E (5 mice) received 450 mg/kg of garlic extract daily. Group F (5 mice) received 500 mg/kg of garlic extract daily. All administration were done intraperitoneally for 38 days following which blood specimens were collected for biochemical analysis and the animals sacrificed for histological analysis.

Results: The result of the study showed a dose dependent increase in levels of liver enzymes 9AST, ALT and ALP) as well as an increase in serum creatinine levels. Additional findings included dose dependent histologic alterations in hepatic, renal and cardiac functions compared with the control group 6.

Conclusion: This study therefore highlights the safety of garlic at low levels and the potential toxicity of high dose garlic extract to the liver, heart and kidney.