Background: The medical benefits of Brassica nigra have been utilized for centuries, particularly in countries with limited resources. People believe medicinal plants as safe and cost effective however, unaware of their toxic effects. Hematological parameters are essential tool to assess the degree of toxicity on cellular components of blood. Hence, the aim of this study is to evaluate the effect of Brassica nigra on hematological parameters in rats using an automated analyzer. Methodology: Albino wistar rats were randomly assigned into three groups of six rats each. Group 1 was control, while group 2 and group 3 received 250 mg/kg and 500 mg/kg body weight of extract respectively, orally once daily. Results: No significant difference was observed in the WBC count of extract treated groups (P>0.05) at both doses. The group received 250mg/kg group did not show any significant difference (P>0.05) in RBC count, HCT, Hb, MCV, MCH, MCHC, platelet count, as compared to control. Whereas, HCT and Hb were siginificantly increase at 500mg/kg as compared to the control. Conclusion: Oral administration of Brassica nigra at 500mg/kg increases Hb and HCT; while no significant difference was observed at 250mg/kg on different hematological parameters.

Key words: Brassica nigra, Hematocrit, Hemoglobin, RBC count, WBC count