Toxicological Assessment of a Topical Organic Cream in Male Rabbits: Impacts on Reproductive, Haematologic, and Hepatic Parameters

  

Anthony Tope Olofinnade, Sunday Oladunjoye Ogundele, Esther Oluwatoyin Ayorinde, Jemilat Abiodun Bello, Omoniyi Kayode Yemitan

Department of Pharmacology, Therapeutics and Toxicology, Faculty of Basic Clinical Sciences, College of Medicine, Lagos State University, Ikeja, Lagos State, Nigeria

ABSTRACT

The increasing use of natural or “organic” cosmetic products has raised concerns regarding their potential systemic and reproductive risks, particularly as many contain biologically active substances capable of altering physiological functions. This study investigated the subacute toxicological profile of organic cream in male rabbits, focusing on reproductive, haematological, and hepatotoxic outcomes. Twenty male rabbits were randomly assigned to four groups: a control group treated with coconut oil and three experimental groups treated topically with 0.1 ml, 0.3 ml, or 1 ml of the organic cream on shaved skin. After 28 days of daily exposure, blood samples were collected to evaluate hormonal, haematological, and liver function parameters; semen samples were assessed for motility, concentration, and morphology. Exposure to the organic cream produced a dose-dependent elevation in serum testosterone, peaking at 0.3 ml, followed by a slight decline at 1 ml. Higher doses significantly reduced sperm motility and concentration and increased morphological abnormalities. Haematological indices showed mild but notable alterations at higher doses, while liver function tests indicated early hepatotoxic biochemical changes at the highest dose. Overall, the organic cream demonstrated a biphasic effect on reproductive function while also exerting measurable haematological and hepatic stress at higher exposure levels. These findings suggest that frequent or high-dose application of certain organic cosmetic formulations may pose health risks, warranting caution among individuals of reproductive age and highlighting the need for stricter evaluation of natural cosmetic products.

KEYWORDS: Dermal toxicity, Organic cream, Reactive oxygen species; Topical exposure