Author(s):

Rukenya Zachary Muthii, Mbaria James Mucunu, Mbaabu Mathiu Peter, Kiama Stephen Gitahi

Abstract: Despite wide usage Aloe turkanensis as an herbal remedy, its phytochemical profile and safety has not been properly documented. Aqueous and methanol extract of a naturally occurring and cultivated whole plant was obtained. In vitro toxicity using Brine Shrimp Lethality Test (BSLT) and phytochemical screening were carried out. The extracts exhibited zero percent mortality on BSLT. Qualitative phytochemical screening of extracts from naturally growing Aloe turkanensis showed high concentrations of tannins. Aqueous extracts of naturally growing plant showed high concentrations of alkaloids and moderate concentration of anthraquinones, terpenoids and saponins. Methanol extract of naturally growing planthad a lower concentration of anthraquinones and terpenoids with moderate concentration of saponins and alkaloids. The cultivated species aqueous extract had a moderate concentration of anthraquinones, lower concentrations of terpenoids and steroids with negative results for saponins and alkaloids while methanol extract had moderate concentrations of terpenoids and steroids with negative results for anthraquinones, saponins and alkaloids.

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