Abstract: OBJECTIVE: The effects of fructus schisandrae chinensis decoction on dams and embryo-fetal development were examined using Sprague-Dawley rats. METHODS: Fructus schisandrae chinensis decoction was administered at dose of 15 g/kg(herbal raw material) per day orally to groups consisting of 20 mated animals, once daily for 12 days from day 6 through day 17 of gestation. The clinical signs of rats, as well as abortions, premature deliveries, body weights, and feed intake, were monitored. Caesarean section and autopsy were performed on GD 20. Uterine content were evaluated for number and distribution of implantations, live and dead fetuses. The number of corpora lutea in each ovary was also recorded. Fetuses were weighed and examined for gender and appearance, visceral and skeletal alterations. RESULTS: There were no significant differences in any parameter of dams and fetuses. CONCLUSION: No maternal toxicity and embryo-fetal toxicity were found when fructus schisandrae chinensis decoction administered orally during the period from implantation to closure of the hard palate.

Key words: fructus schisandrae chinensis, rat, developmental toxicity