Phytomedicine
Volume 13, Issue 8 , Pages 542-549, 11 September 2006

Safety of ethanolic kava extract: Results of a study of chronic toxicity in rats

  • L. Sorrentino

      Affiliations

    • Department of Experimental Pharmacology, University Frederico II, Via D. Montesano 49, I-80131 Napoli, Italy
    • Corresponding Author InformationCorresponding author. Tel.: +39081678412; fax: +39081678403.
    • ,
  • A. Capasso

      Affiliations

    • Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Salerno, Via Ponto Don Melillo, I-84084 Fisciano, Salerno, Italy
    • ,
  • M. Schmidt

      Affiliations

    • Herbresearch Germany, Wartbergweg 15, D-86874 Tussenhausen, Germany

Abstract 

Backgrounds

Recently, potential liver toxicity was discussed with the intake of kava extract preparations (Piper methysticum) as anxiolytic drugs. The aim of this study was to test chronic toxicity in rats by oral application of an ethanolic kava full extract.

Methods

Wistar rats of both sexes were fed 7.3 or 73mg/kg body weight of ethanolic kava extract for 3 and 6 months. The animals were examined for changes in body weight, hematological and liver parameters, and macroscopical and microscopical histological changes in the major organs.

Results

No signs of toxicity could be found.

Conclusions

The results are in accordance with the medical experience regarding the use of kava preparations and the long tradition of kava drinking in the South Pacific island states. Specifically, the results do not back the suspicion of potential liver toxicity.

Keywords: Kava, Piper methysticum, Chronic toxicity, Liver, Wistar rats, Repeat dose toxicity

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PII: S0944-7113(06)00017-1

doi:10.1016/j.phymed.2006.01.006

Phytomedicine
Volume 13, Issue 8 , Pages 542-549, 11 September 2006

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