Abortive effect of Boswellia hydroalcoholic extract in mice

Introduction: In traditional medicine, Boswellia serrata (Burseraceae family) has been used for its various effects such as enhancing learning and memory. However, some side effects have been mentioned with emphasizing on a probability for abortion. Therefore, the aim of this study was to evaluate Boswellia serrata abortive effect in mice. Materials and Methods: In this experimental study, virgin young female mice (balb/c) with a 25-30 gr weight were used in three different time periods: before fertilization, pre-implantation period (days 1-5 of gestation) and during implantation (days 5-7 of gestation). In each study four groups (n=8) were used including experimental groups who received 50, 100 and 200 mg/kg of Boswellia extract (IP), respectively and a control group (received 0.3 ml distilled water (IP). Animals were sacrificed on days 11-13 of pregnancy and the number of implantation sites were counted. Results: The average number of implantation sites in control and 50, 100 and 200mg/kg concentrations of extract in the pre-fertilization period were 9.83±1.17, 6.5±1.76 , 6.5±1.22 and 6.67±2.07, respectively (P=0.003). In the pre-implantation period they were 8.5±0.91 6±1.31, 5±1.16 and 3.29±1.27, respectively (P=0.032), and during implantation were 9.38±2.77, 6.38±3.1, 5.25±2.25 and 3.57±2.17, respectively (P=0.035). Reductions in the number of implantation sites were found to be dose-dependent in preimplantation and implantation periods. Conclusion: Our findings showed that Boswellia exert has abortive effects in mice and the stronger effect was observed with higher doses during preimplantation and implantation periods.