Effect of rhazya stricta on the development of rat fetus

Rhazya slricta is a medicinal plant that is commonly used in the United Arab Emirates. The effect of oral administartion of the lyophilised extract at doses of 0.5, 2, 5 and 8 g/kg of the on the developing rat fetus was studied. The plant extract was given to pregnant animals on days I, 2, and 3, days 7, 8 and 9, or days 13, 14 and 15 of gestation. Fetuses were examined for gross external and skeletal malformations The results showed that rats were most affected on days 10, 11 and 12 of gestation, where Rhazya slricla caused total résorption of fetuses. Other malformations were observed but were not statistically significant. These included oedema, tongue protrusion, micromelia, adactyly and growth retardation. No overt skeletal malformations were observed. In view of the adverse effect of Rhazya slricta on fetal development, we suggest that it should not be taken by pregnant women.