Abstract
The phytochemicals used by plants to protect themselves against predators in Moringa oleifera roots were
qualitatively identified in the aqueous and ethanol extracts. Its acute toxicity in 24 h was evaluated in Swiss
albino mice. M. oleifera, a native plant of the sub-Himalayan tracts of India, Pakistan, Bangladesh and
Afghanistan is used in folk medicine. It is claimed to have nutritional, medicinal, socio-economic and
industrial values. Many individuals and families consume the roots for their medicinal properties. Despite
wide use the roots, the phytochemicals and toxicity profile are not well documented. This study set out to
determine the phytochemicals and acute toxicity of M. oleifera roots in mice. The roots were harvested
during dry season and air dried. Serial extractions using ether, ethanol and water were done. The harvested
phytochemicals were qualitatively identified using standard chemicals procedures. The phytochemicals
identified were: gallic tannins, catechol tennins, steroids and triterponoids, saponins, anthraquinones,
alkaloids, and reducing sugars. Acute toxicity was determined by giving a single oral dose to Swiss albino
mice and observed for 24 h. The LD50 was calculated using the probit tables. The LD50 of ethanol extract
was 17.8 g/kg and that of aqueous extract was 15.9 g/kg. In conclusion, M. oleifera roots contain protective
phytochemicals and are relatively non-toxic when given in a single dose.
Key words: Moringa oleifera roots, phytochemicals, medicinal plant extracts, herbal medicine, acute toxicity, mice
