Effects Cytotoxic and Genotoxic of Aqueous Extract of Fennel (Foeniculum vulgarevar. vulgare Mill.)

Fennel (Foeniculum vulgare Mill), originating in the basin of the Eastern Mediterranean and Caucasian, is now cultivated in many varieties selected by the sweetness and low concentrations of anethole, which allows consumption in salad dressings and condiments. Other varieties were selected to obtain high concentrations of essential oils and are used in folk medicine pharmaceutical industry. Despite the long history of application ethnomedicinal F. vulgare, no reports of serious side effects, several studies have shown that they can present cytotoxic and genotoxic activity. Therefore, this study aimed to analyze the cytotoxic and genotoxic effects of aqueous extract of fennel (Foeniculum vulgarevar. vulgare Mill.), Prepared in 2%, 4% and 8%, compared to bioindicators (Allium cepa L. and Musmusculus L.). The aqueous extract of F. vulgarea concentration of 2% cytotoxic effects caused significantly inhibiting mitotic division and genotoxic effects, providing chromosomal damage induced micronucleus formation in meristematic cells of Allium cepa L. In experimental animals in vivo genotoxic potential was found in cell bone marrow of mice. In this way, fennel tea should be consumed with moderations and medical care, especially for infants who have not yet developed the digestive tract, it may be harmful to health.