Phytochemical Analysis and Assessment of Acute Toxicity of an Aqueous Extract of Cnestis ferruginea (Connariaceae) Leaves in Wistar Rats

Abstract

Background: Cnestis ferruginea is a medicinal plant with several reported biological and pharmacological properties, though its safety for human use still requires scientific validation. Aim: The aim of this study is to assess the chemical composition and acute toxicity of the aqueous extract of Cnestis ferruginea leaves. Study Design: This is an experimental study on Wistar rats. Place and Duration of Study: Department of Applied Biology and Health, Biology and Health Laboratory, between January and February 2025. Methodology: An aqueous extract of Cnestis ferruginea leaves was prepared by maceration followed by filtration. The extract was then used for phytochemical analysis using established methods, followed by acute toxicity testing on female rats, which were force-fed a single dose of 2000 mg/kg body weight, in accordance with OECD Guideline 423. Changes in body weight were recorded throughout the study. Results: Analyses have shown that the aqueous extract of Cnestis ferruginea leaves contains sterols and polyterpenes, polyphenols, flavonoids, catechin tannins, alkaloids and saponosides. With regard to acute toxicity, no mortality or clinical signs of toxicity were observed in rats during the test. Thus, the LD₅₀ was estimated to be greater than 2000 mg/kg body weight. As for the slight variation in body weight in the treated rats (an average decrease of 1.87± 0. 46g between the 5th and 14th day of treatment) compared with the control group, this was found to be non-significant (P = 0.065). Conclusion: The leaves of Cnestis ferruginea are rich in secondary metabolites and are safe for short-term use.