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There seems to be
little literature about the toxicity of the widely used garlic, which
makes it important to investigate chemical elements as well as chemical
compounds that could be present in garlic bulbs and their safety for
human handlers and consumers.
Phytochemical screening and elemental analysis of powdered bulb of
Allium sativum
L. and
toxicological effects of its aqueous extract were investigated in
experimental rabbits. Acute toxicity study was conducted following
subcutaneous administration of graded doses of the plant extract in
experimental rabbits. LD50 was found to be 3034 mg/kg and
maximum tolerated dose was 2200 mg/kg. Mortality occurred in rabbits
given the extract at 3200 and 4200 mg/kg with other behavioural signs
like loss of appetite and partial paralysis. The percentage yield of the
extract was 75.8%. Elemental analysis indicated that the powdered plant
material contained mainly potassium, phosphorus and iron among other
elements. While the phytochemical screening revealed presence of the
following chemical compounds: saponins, steroids, tannins, carbohydrates
and cardiac glycosides, whereas, alkaloids, cadenolide, flavonoid,
anthraquinone and cyanogenic glycosides were found absent.
Key
words:
Garlic, chemical elements, chemical compounds, safety margin, rabbits,
Nigeria. |
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