The toxicological and histopathological effects of aqueous and ethanolic extracts of Cyperus rotundus rhizomes in ehrlich ascites carcinoma induced in Swiss albino mice

Introduction: Cyperus rotundus, commonly known as mustha, is a perennial weed and possesses the ability to adopt to various soil types, temperatures, and moisture levels. It has several pharmacological and medicinal applications such as astringent, diuretic, antispasmodic, carminative, vermifuge, and antimicrobial properties. This study was designed to assess the toxicological and histopathological effects of aqueous and ethanolic extracts of C. rotundus rhizomes in Ehrlich ascites carcinoma (EAC)-induced Swiss albino mice. Material and Methods: Toxicity evaluation was carried out according to the OECD guidelines and histopathological assessment of the liver and kidney tissues was made using hematoxylin and eosin staining. Results: Results indicated that both ethanolic and aqueous extracts did not induce any toxicity up to 2000 mg/kg body weight doses. Examination of ascitic fluid revealed that ethanol extract at 250 mg/kg dosage induced degenerative changes, whereas aqueous extract at both dosage levels showed mild signs of apoptosis. Gross pathology of the liver and kidney indicated that the extracts did not alter the normal cytoarchitecture of these tissues. Discussion and Conclusion: Findings from this study interpret that C. rotundus rhizome extracts can be used as a complementary therapeutic in the EAC.