Abstract
Objective: Ficus exasperata Vahl (Sandpaper tree) is extensively used in
Nigeria to treat diseases, but a dearth of documentation about its toxicity
exists. This information is crucial because pollutants can contaminate
medicinal plants. This study determined the heavy metal and phytochemical
content of methanolic leaf extract of F exasperata obtained in Birnin Kebbi,
Nigeria. Material and Methods: The lethality of the plant was also assessed
using 70 wild shrimps divided equally into seven groups. Group 1 (negative
control), groups 2 and 3 (positive controls) were exposed to 500 and 1000ppm of
formaldehyde, respectively; and groups 4-7 were exposed to 1000, 2000, 4000,
and 8000ppm of extracts, respectively, for 96 hours. Results: The
phytochemistry revealed high levels of flavonoids and saponins and moderate
levels of tannins and phenols. The heavy metal analysis revealed non-tolerable
levels of cadmium, copper, and lead, while zinc was within the tolerable limit.
The negative control recorded 10% mortality, 1000 and 2000 ppm (20% each),
4000ppm (70%), and 8000 ppm (100%). Conclusion: These results inferred safe
doses of the plant's extract in low and medium concentrations but toxic and
fatal at high doses over a period of time. Consumers are advised to seek an
expert's guidance before using it.
Citation
ID:
281712
Ref Key:
abdulgafar2025toxicological