GC/MS Analysis and a 30-day Toxicological Evaluation of a Nigerian Immunomodulatory Polyherbal Supplement (PHS)
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Date
2023-11-09
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Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Benin
Abstract
Background and Purpose: A Nigerian-formulated polyherbal supplement (PHS) is
consumed for its folkloric claims of boosting the immune system. The aim of this study was
to toxicologically evaluate a 30-day administration of PHS.
Methods: Gas Chromatography/Mass Spectrometry (GC/MS) analysis was carried out on the
ethanol extract of PHS. Thirty-two Wistar rats were randomly assigned to four groups. One
group served as control while the other three groups were administered 250, 500, and 1000
mg/kg/day of PHS for 30 consecutive days. The animals were anesthetized, and cardiac
puncture was used to obtain whole blood for hematology and serum biochemistry. In vivo,
antioxidant assays were also carried out on the liver homogenates. The liver, kidneys, and
heart were examined histologically.
Results: The most abundant compounds identified were eucalyptol, alpha-pinene, and phytol.
There were no adverse hematological effects. Total cholesterol, LDL-C, and catalase were
reduced significantly (P<0.05). At 1000 mg/kg/day, there was a significant increase in
creatinine, sodium ion, and glutathione peroxidase concentration. The histological
examination of the heart, kidneys, and liver revealed that PHS did not cause any major tissue
lesions at 250 and 500 mg/kg/day. Tissue lesions and pathologies were obvious at 1000
mg/kg/day.
Conclusion: The polyherbal supplement seems to be relatively safe if used at doses up to 250
mg/kg/day. Higher doses may cause renal and hepatic lesions
Description
Keywords
GC/MS, Herbal toxicity, Histology, Herbal supplement, Phytochemicals