Evaluation of Maternal Toxicity in Rats Exposed to the Total Extract of the Alkaloids in the seeds of Peganum harmala L. during Pregnancy

Peganum harmala L. (Zygophyllaceae) known locally as harmel is a medicinal plant. In traditional medicine, its seeds have long been used for therapeutic purposes because of their richness in β-carboline alkaloids. This study aimed to evaluate the maternal and developmental toxicity during pregnancy by daily IP administration 7.99 mg/kg/day (1/20 DL50) total alkaloids extract P.harmala’ seeds. The results summarized confirmed rates were high 90-100%, decreased locomotor activity, paralysis, hypothermia. Maternal body weight gain changes statistically significant all pregnant. Precisely, relative ovaries was significantly changed groups treated. ALAT gamma GT concentrations show change group treated seven days. Significant indirect bilirubin levels observed groups. hormonal analysis showed decrease FSH days two weeks, Progesterone increased three weeks groups, however, Estrogen only three. difference resorbed litters number fetus deaths weeks. significant. implantations an increase pre-and post-implantation loss rates, there no developed live or dead, fetuses dams, implantation sites both uterine horns. P. has adverse effects on maternotoxicity, embryonic development, abortion.