Acute Oral Toxicity of a Novel Functional Drink base on Ecuadorian Plant Species

Abstract

A novel functional drink with nutraceutical properties was formulated from the aqueous extracts of Ilex guayusa, and Vernonanthura patens leaves, and cocoa husks. This combination presents bioactive compounds, such as phenolic compounds, with antioxidant properties of pharmacological interest. However, it is known that the interaction of herbal extracts compounds may cause adverse toxic effects on human health. To evaluate this functional drink's innocuity, we estimated the acute oral toxicity in experimental mice. The toxicological study was carried out following the FASEB Statement of Principles for the Use of Animals in Research and Education. Female albino mice were treated with a single oral dose (2000 mg/kg of body weight) of the aqueous extract of the functional drink's two formulations. In addition, changes in behavior, body weight, food and water consumption, and histopathological studies were evaluated. No signs of adverse toxicity and mortality were observed after a single oral dose of 2000 mg/kg b.w. Likewise, there were no significant body and organ weight changes, food and water consumption behavior, and no histopathological changes were observed in the main organs evaluated. In conclusion, this functional drink can be categorized as “non-toxic,” according to the Globally Harmonized Classification System (GHS), making it a potent antioxidant beverage with high nutritional value.