Regulation of Hyperthyroidism by Rauwolfia serpentina Root Extract in Mice

Abstract

The aim of this study was to determine the role of Rauwolfia serpentina root extract in the regulation of hyperthyroidism in mice. In L-thyroxine (50 μg/100 g for 30 days)-treated mice, an increase in serum concentrations of both thyroid hormones (thyroxine and triiodothyronine) and in hepatic glucose-6-phosphatase activity was observed. Daily administration of the plant extract (2.5 mg kg−1) either alone or with thyroxine for 30 days decreased concentrations of both thyroid hormones, indicating the possible regulation of hyperthyroidism by the plant extract. The plant extract also decreased hepatic lipid peroxidation and increased super-oxide dismutase and catalase activity in hyperthyroid mice without hepatotoxic effects. R. serpentina root extract might be a potentially effective treatment for hyperthyroidism.