Phytochemical and Elemental Constituents, Acute Toxicity (LD50) Studies of Aqueous Leaf Extract of Calotropis procera

Abstract

Qualitative phytochemical and elemental analysis and acute toxicity studies of aqueous extract from leaves of Calotropis procera were carried out using standard procedures. Phytochemical analysis revealed the presence of carbohydrate, tannins, cardiac glycoside, flavonoids, terpenoid, saponin and saponin glycoside. Elemental analysis revealed the presence of various elements such as Copper lead, nickel, chromium, cadmium, iron and zinc at various concentrations of 0.000335 %, 0.00005 %, 0.000027 %, 0.000014 %, 0.00024 %, 0.00024 % and 0.000022 % respectively. Acute toxicity (LD₅₀) test using the extract in albino rats was calculated to be 774 mg/kg body weight. This finding can explain the beneficial medicinal value of this plant at low doses and toxicity at high doses.