Toxicologic Analysis of Linlinna-aw (Peperomiapellucida Linn.)

Abstract

This study primarily aimed to perform pharmacological testing on a locally abundant plant that grows widely in the province of /locos Sur, commonly known as "linlinna-aw" and known scientifically as Peperomia pellucida Linn.. Specifically, this experimental investigation observed the behavior of the Swiss mice which were administered orally with the test drug, determined the mortality of the Swiss mice after oral administration, and identified the toxicity range (Approximate Lethal Dose or ALD) of "linlinna-aw". Experimental method was used as the research design employing actual laboratory set-up. The first phase (air-drying and extraction processes) was done at the UNP Chemistry and Natural Science Laboratory and the second phase (pharmacological testing through Approximate Lethal Dose) was done at the Chemistry and Pharmacological Division of the Department ofScience and Technology in Bicutan, Taguig, Metro Manila from January 1999 - March 2000. The ethanol extract of "inlinna-aw" (Peperomia pellucida Linn.) has toxicity effect when administered orally to Swiss mice. The Approximate Lethal Dose (ALD) is 8g/kg. It is safe to use a dose ranging from 1 g/kg up to 7.5 g/kg. Toxidrome ranges from decreased motor activity, ptosis, writhing, hyperemia, abnormal gait, ataxia, diarrhea, convulsion, and death of two mice within 30 minutes.The mortality ratio ofSwiss mice administered orally with the ethanol extract is 20:20. In the autopsy findings, all mice that died immediately and those sacrificed and autopsied after 14 days had grossly normal findings. Potential Technology. Below 8 gkg of the sample drug of linlinna-aw can be transformed into tablets and lotion/ointmentfor the treatment ofarthritis and convulsion, and warm poultice for abscesses and boils. A dose of 8 g/kg or more can be used as pesticides.