ABSTRACT

Oxidative stress is a condition that occurs when there is an imbalance between the production of reactive oxygen species (ROS) and the ability ofthe body's antioxidant defenses to neutralize them. ROS are unstable molecules that can cause damage to cells, proteins, and DNA if they are not neutralized. Oxidative stress has been implicated in a variety of diseases, including cancer, diabetes, and cardiovascular disease. In a study conducted to investigate the toxicity effect of ethanol extract of Sida acuta leaves on oxidative stress indices offemale albino rats, the rats were divided into four groups. The first group served as the control, while the second, third, and fourth groups were given 100, 200, and 300 mg/kg body weight of the ethanol extract of Sida acuta leaves, respectively, for 90 days. At the end of the study, the researchers found that the ethanol extract of Sida acuta leaves caused a dose-dependent increase in oxidative stress indices in the rats. The levels ofmalondialdehyde (MDA), a marker oflipid peroxidation and oxidative damage, were significantly higher in the groups that received the ethanol extract than in the control group. Similarly, the activities of antioxidant enzymes, including superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT), and glutathione peroxidase (GPx), were significantly lower in the groups that received the ethanol extract than in the control group. The results ofthe study suggest that the ethanol extract of Sida acuta leaves may have toxic effects on the oxidative stress indices offemale albino rats. The increased levels of MDA and decreased activities of antioxidant enzymes indicate that the extract may induce oxidative stress and damage to cells and tissues. Therefore, caution should be taken when using Sida acuta for medicinal purposes, and it should be used in moderation and under the guidance of a healthcare professional. In conclusion, the study provides valuable insights into the potential toxicity ofthe ethanol extract ofSida acuta leaves on the oxidative stress indices offemale albino rats.