Objective: To observe the long-term effect of Rhubarb on the uterus and ovary in female rats. Method: Ninety 8-week-old female rats (180-220 g) were randomly divided into nine groups:normal control group

and investigation groups (n=10 each

administration of Rhubarb 1.0

2.0 g·kg-1 for 30

40

50

60 d respectively).Then the index of uterus and ovary were calculated

and the morphological changes in uterus and ovary were observed. Result: The indexes of uterus and ovary in Rhubarb 1.0 g·kg-160 d group were lower than that in the control group obviously (P<0.05);the indexes of uterus in 2.0 g·kg-1 groups (40

50

60 d) were lower than that in the control group obviously (P<0.05 or P<0.01). While

the indexes of ovary in 2.0 g·kg-1 groups (30

40

50

60 d) were lower than that in the control group obviously (P<0.05 or P<0.01). The pathological examination showed that endometrial edema and glandular reduction

ovary atrophy

follicles reduction

and follicle cells irregular arrangment in 2.0 g·kg-1 groups (50

60 d). Conclusion: The long-term use of Rhubarb shows a certain degree of reproductive toxicity in female rats

and its impact is clear dose/time dependent.