PHYTOCHEMICALS AND ACUTE TOXICITY OF MORINGA OLEIFERA BARKS IN RATS

Objectives:The phytochemicals in Moringa oleifera barks were qualitatively identified in the aqueous and ethanol extracts. The acute oral toxicity of Moringa oleifera aqueous and ethanol extracts were done as per OECD guidelines 423. Methods: The barks were harvested during dry season and air dried. Extractions using ethanol and water were done. The harvested phytochemicals were qualitatively identified using standard chemicals procedures. Acute toxicity was done on 3 male and 3 female Wistar rats which were administered an initial dose of 300 mg/kg body weight followed by 2000 mg/kg & 5000 mg/kg body weight. The animals were observed for signs of convulsions, tremors, circling, depression, excitement and mortality. Body weight was recorded at 0,7th and 14th day and plasma total protein, blood sugar level, total cholesterol, SGOT & SGPT were measured to evaluate the toxicity of the extracts. Results: The phytochemicals identified were steroids and triterponoids, saponins, alkaloids, and carbohydrates. No abnormal sign of symptoms were observed in any of the animal fed with aqueous and ethanol extracts at the dose rate of 300 mg/kg body weight, 2000 mg/kg body weight & 5000 mg/kg body weight. No mortality was observed in any of the animals. Conclusion: M. oleifera barks, ethanol and aqueous extracts contain steroids and triterpenoids, saponins, alkaloids and carbohydrates. The administration of M. oleifera ethanolic and water extracts are safest & has no adverse effect on growth related and biochemical parameters indicating its safety.