The Effect of Shirazi Thyme (Zataria multiflora) Consumption During Pregnancy on Neonatal Physical Growth in Wistar Rats

Zataria multiflora (Shirazi Thyme) is one of the plants which has become popular due to its suitable compounds. Pregnancy is a high-risk period in which the consumption of substances which affect the physical growth of neonate can cause the disorders. This study was performed on 32 female Wister rats weighing 210 ± 10 g who were randomly divided into 4 equal groups. Zataria multiflora extract was prepared by the distillation, and different concentrations (400, 800, 1000 mg/kg/day) which were administered by gavage during the pregnancy. The control group only received normal food and water. After the birth, the weight, height, and head circumference of neonate’s rat was measured on the first, third, and fifth days of birth. Findings were analyzed by SPSS software using one-way analysis of variance. The results showed a significant decrease in the circumferential changes in the neonates of study groups. No significant difference was observed in the weight changes. The consumption of Shirazi thyme during pregnancy reduces the height and head circumference in neonate’s rats; hence, it should be cautiously used.