Toxicity Assessment Of Terminalia Monoceros (Myrtales; Combretatceae), A Plant Used For Water Purification In The South Of Madagascar

Abstract

Terminalia monoceros, a plant endemic to Madagascar, is traditionally used to purify water in the Beloha Androy district. This study evaluates its acute and sub-acute toxicity in mice through clinical, biochemical and hematological analyses. Oral administration of doses between 50 and 5000 mg/kg for acute toxicity revealed no signs of toxicity or mortality, indicating low toxicity and precluding determination of a median lethal dose (LD50). For subacute toxicity, daily administration of 10 mg/kg for 30 days produced no significant changes in body weight or organs (heart, liver, spleen, kidneys), suggesting no adverse effects on growth and physiology. Biochemical (liver enzymes, renal function) and hematological (leukocyte count, hemoglobin, platelets) analyses revealed no abnormalities, ruling out any hepatotoxicity, nephrotoxicity or hematological toxicity. Terminalia monoceros extracts are therefore well tolerated, even at high doses, and show no obvious toxicity. These results reinforce their potential as a natural water treatment agent. However, further studies are still needed to further investigate their safety and efficacy, thus contributing to the valorization of medicinal plants in environmental and therapeutic applications.