Abstract
Herbal drinks are popular drinks in Nigeria nevertheless; most herbal drinks do not adhere to WHO standards. This shows the need to examine the concentration of phytochemicals and specific heavy metals in some of the commercially sold herbs in Iperu-Remo was the objective of the study. Four (4) herbs were purchased from vendors. The major aim of the study was to estimate phytochemicals using standard methods while an atomic absorption spectrometer was used for heavy metals estimations. The findings revealed that the highest concentration of Alkaloid was recorded in Agbo Iba (4.11 mg/L), Phenolic compound in Agbo Iba (3.66 mg/L), Tannin was in Agbo Iba (0.411 mg/L), and Terpenoids was in Jedi Jedi (0.931 mg/L). The highest Arsenic (As) concentration was recorded in Opa Eyin (1.02 mg/L), followed by Agbo Iba (0.581 mg/L), Jedi Jedi (0.351 mg/L) while the lowest concentration was recorded in FIJK Flusher (0.0046 mg/L). The highest Cadmium (Cd) concentration was recorded in Opa Eyin (0.273 mg/L), followed by Agbo Iba (0.112mg/L), Jedi Jedi (0.087 mg/L) while the lowest was recorded in FIJK Flusher (0.002 mg/L). As and Cd concentration in the samples were above the WHO standard except for FIJK Flusher. Nigeria as well as other countries with similar practices should incorporate these herbs into the National Healthcare System because there is a need for quality assurance, safety, awareness and standardization of these herbs for the benefit of the consumers.
Published Version
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