Đánh giá độc tính cấp của GERC7 từ chiết xuất củ nghệ bọ cạp (Curcuma rangjued) với tiềm năng bảo vệ tim mạch

The exploration of natural resources for medicinal purposes is a vital area of research, particularly for traditional plants with therapeutic potential. Curcuma rangjued, a species cultivated in Vietnam's Central Highlands, has garnered attention due to its distinct characteristics and potential health benefits, differentiating it from common turmeric species like Curcuma longa. While traditional medicine often relies on empirical knowledge, rigorous scientific validation, especially regarding safety, is paramount before clinical application. This study addresses this critical need by conducting an acute toxicity assessment of GERC7, an extract derived from Curcuma rangjued, to establish its safety profile and pave the way for future pharmacological investigations, particularly concerning its potential cardioprotective effects.

Researchers in pharmacology, toxicology, traditional medicine, and natural product development; pharmaceutical companies; and regulatory bodies involved in the assessment and approval of herbal medicinal products.

This study aimed to evaluate the acute toxicity of GERC7, a novel extract obtained from Curcuma rangjued rhizomes via steam distillation and formulated with honey emulsion, in a mouse model. The research followed stringent guidelines from OECD 420 and the Vietnamese Ministry of Health for preclinical testing of traditional medicine and herbal drugs. Acute toxicity testing involved administering GERC7 orally to white mice at varying doses, up to 75 mL/kg/day, over a 14-day observation period. The core methodology focused on monitoring survival rates, general health status, body weight changes, and post-mortem macroscopic and microscopic examination of vital organs. The results conclusively demonstrated that GERC7 did not induce any acute toxicity or mortality in the experimental mice at the highest tested dose of 75 mL/kg/day. No adverse clinical signs, significant changes in body weight, or alterations in the relative weights of organs such as the heart, spleen, liver, kidneys, and lungs were observed. These findings indicate that Curcuma rangjued is a promising medicinal resource with a favorable safety profile, confirming GERC7 as non-toxic under the tested conditions. This established safety threshold provides a crucial foundation for subsequent pharmacological studies, particularly those exploring its potential applications, such as cardiovascular disease prevention or treatment, and further comprehensive toxicity assessments to validate its long-term safety and efficacy.