CONCENTRATION AND SOURCES OF POLYCYCLIC AROMATIC HYDROCARBONS IN HERBAL DRUGS USED TO TREAT DIABETES IN NIGERIA
Abstract
ABSTRACT
This study analyzed the concentration and distribution of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) in four (4) different herbal drugs used in the treatment of diabetes samples. The quantification of the $16 PAHs was done using Gas Chromatography-Mass Spectroscopy. The results showed a total concentration ranging from 204 µg/L. to 448µg/L, with an average concentration of 368µg/L.. The PAH concentration was found to be highest in sample 1, followed by sample 3, sample 4, and sample 2. All the samples were classified as toxic with respect to PAHs, based on the non-toxie classification threshold of 0.2 mg/m³ or 166.67µg/kg for herbal drugs. Benzo[a]pyrene, the most carcinogenic PAH congener, was detected in samples 1 and 4 only. The results indicate that the samples analyzed are not safe for human consumption due to their PAH concentrations. The study's findings are higher than the results reported by previous studies, indicating the need for further research and regulation to ensure safe consumption of herbal drugs.
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