Acute toxicity, phytochemicals, and nutrient composition of Moringa oleifera leaves, a plant used as a food supplement in the tropical region of Nigeria

Abstract

Introduction: The moringa oleifera (MO) plant is popularly known as the “miracle tree”. The uses of MO leaf extract in controlling high blood pressure and as a food supplement with high nutritional value have been documented scientifically. Some studies have also shown that dosages appear to be safe from tested toxicity but a relative increase such as 3-4 times the recommended doses is known to cause genotoxic damage. However, there is a paucity of human evidence of the potency of MO presently, most studies use animal models such as rats and ethanol extract. Objective: The study aims to assess the acute toxicity lethal and sublethal doses (LD50) of MO using Swiss albino mice and its phytochemical constituents in our locality where consumption is very high. Methods: The ethanol extraction method was used to obtain the concentrates of 100 g, and thirty (30) adult mice (30 - 40g) were used for Acute Toxicity (LD50). Phytochemical analyses were carried out to determine the major Bio-constituents. Result: Showed that LD50 of 3900 mg/kg produced death in mice. Piloerection amongst others and weight gain were observed in sublethal doses. Carbohydrates (36.6%), Calcium, Phenol, Ascorbic acid, and Methyl Octadecenoate (30%) recorded the highest constituents. Conclusion: it is safe to consume MO to promote health in the right doses.