Evaluation of Cytotoxicity and Genotoxicity ofInula viscosaLeaf Extracts with Allium Test

Abstract

I. viscosahas been used for years in folk medicine for its anti-inflammatory, antipyretic, antiseptic, and paper antiphlogistic activities. In this study, cytotoxic and genotoxic effects ofI. viscosaleaf extracts on the root meristem cells ofAllium cepahave been examined. Onion bulbs were exposed to 2.5 mg/ml, 5 mg/ml, and 10 mg/ml concentrations of the extracts for macroscopic and microscopic analysis. Tap water has been used as a negative control and Ethyl methanesulfonate (EMS) ( M) has been used as a positive control. The test concentrations have been determined according to doses which are recommended for use in alternative medicine. There has been statistically significant () inhibition of root growth depending on concentration by the extracts when compared with the control groups. All the tested extracts have been observed to have cytotoxic effects on cell division inA. cepa. I. viscosaleaf extract induces the total number of chromosomal aberrations and micronuclei (MNC) formations inA. ceparoot tip cells significantly when compared with control groups. Also, this paper shows for the first time the induction of cell death, ghost cells, cells with membrane damage, and binucleated cells by extract treatment. These results suggest the cytotoxic and genotoxic effects of theI. viscosaleaf extracts onA. cepa.