Structural and biochemical alterations in the rat liver and duodenum following the administration of Rumex patientia L. extract

Although there are some reports on the use of the root extract of Rumex patientia L. (Polygonaceae) to treat constipation, there aren't sufficient studies on their toxic effects. In this study, the effects of the aqueous extract on liver and duodenum of rat were investigated. Biochemical studies were realized using hepatic detoxification (GST; Glutathione-S-Transferase) enzyme. In addition to histopathological research on liver and duodenum tissues were performed. The results revealed that the administration of the extract by gastric lavage for a period of 7 days, up to a daily dose of 60 mg/mL, neither caused significant inhibition decrease in the concentration of GST enzyme, nor morbid histological changes.