Determination of physico-chemical parameters, chemical elements and acute toxicity of Eleusine Coracana leaf

Abstract

Medicinal plants are a source of bioactive compounds which are responsible for their therapeutic properties that are utilized in the treatment and management of several diseases. This study aimed at investigating the phytochemical, elemental constituents and acute toxicity profile of the powdered leaf of finger millet. The percentage yield and phytochemicals of the extract were determined using standard methods. Elemental analysis was conducted using Atomic Absorption Spectophotometre. OECD (425) method was used to estimate the acute toxicity profile of the extract. The percentage yield of the extract was 7.0%. The phytochemical screening showed the presence of: alkaloids, carbohydrates, cardiac glycosides, flavonoids, phenolic compounds, steroids, saponins and tannins, while anthraquinones were found absent. Elemental analysis indicated the presence of calcium, cobalt, chromium, iron, magnesium and zinc. Cadmium and lead were below detection level while mercury was found to be below WHO limit. The LD₅₀ was determined to be > 5000 mg/kg (OECD 425) with no signs of toxicity or mortality after 14 days.