Effect of Rhubarb Aqueous Extract on Uterus and Ovary Tissue in Adult Rats

Objective: To observe the long-term effect of Rhubarb on the uterus and ovary in female rats.Method: Ninety 8-week-old female rats(180-220 g) were randomly divided into nine groups: normal control group,and investigation groups(n = 10 each,administration of Rhubarb 1.0,2.0 g·kg-1for 30,40,50,60 d respectively).Then the index of uterus and ovary were calculated,and the morphological changes in uterus and ovary were observed.Result: The indexes of uterus and ovary in Rhubarb 1.0 g·kg-160 d group were lower than that in the control group obviously(P 0.05); the indexes of uterus in 2.0 g·kg-1groups(40,50,60 d) were lower than that in the control group obviously(P 0.05 or P 0.01).While,the indexes of ovary in 2.0 g·kg-1groups(30,40,50,60 d) were lower than that in the control group obviously(P 0.05 or P 0.01).The pathological examination showed that endometrial edema and glandular reduction,ovary atrophy,follicles reduction,and follicle cells irregular arrangment in 2.0 g·kg-1groups(50,60 d).Conclusion: The long-term use of Rhubarb shows a certain degree of reproductive toxicity in female rats,and its impact is clear dose / time dependent.