Toxicity Study of Swarna Bhasma, an Ayurvedic Medicine Containing Gold, in Wistar Rats

Abstract

Objectives: This study was conducted to estimate No Observed Effect Level (NOEL) or no observed adverse effect level of Swarna Bhasma an Ayurvedic classical preparation of gold in Wistar rats. Materials and Methods: Swarna Bhasma was prepared as per classical Ayurvedic text and analyzed for physicochemical properties. A total of 40 Wistar rats of either sex with an average body weight of 150-200 g were divided into four groups with 10 animals of both sexes in each group. Group I served as control and was given vehicle (Honey:Water in 2:3 ratio) Group II, III, IV were orally administered Swarna Bhasma @ 13.5, 6.75, 1.35 mg/kg body weight for 90 consecutive days. The effect of the drug was observed on ponderal changes, hematological, and biochemical parameters. At the end of the study, all animals were sacrificed and examined for gross pathological changes. Histopathological evaluation was performed only for control and high-dose group and of animals that were moribund sacrificed. Results: Swarna Bhasma was found to be safe at all levels tested. No significant treatment-related clinical signs were noted in all groups studied. The food and water consumption was not affected at highest given dose, i.e., 13.5 mg/kg body weight. No major alterations were observed during histopathological evaluation. Conclusion: This study indicates 13.5 mg/kg body weight as NOEL for Swarna Bhasma in Wistar rats.