Evaluation of the safety prifile of a traditional herbal supplement BZ 013, used as an antiviral and immunomodulator agent

Abstract

Background; Toxicological tests, also known as safety screening tests or toxicity tests, are conducted to determine the degree of damage that a substance confers to living organisms. They can be used to examine the safety profile of finished materials that includes medication, chemical ingredients and food additives. They are conducted in the absence of anesthetics as there could be potential drug interactions which could affect metabolism and detoxification of chemicals by the animals which may affect the observed results. This study has indicated some potential toxicities of BZ 013, a traditional herbal supplement and anti viral agent, thus gives valuable information on the need for detailed toxicity studies for herbal products. Purpose of the study; The main objective of this study was to assess the safety profile ofBZ 013, a traditional herbal supplement and anti viral agent present in the Kenyan market today. Methodology; The study was laboratory based and included the extraction ofthe alcohol soluble component ofthe drug and making a solution that was then administered to the rats at high concentration. The rats were then sacrificed after three days of administration of the test substance and observed for toxicity. Findings and conclusions; The BZ013 was found to cause significant liver and renal toxicity. In some instances, other organs like the heart, spleen and lungs were also significantly affected. This means that the drug has potential for a lot of general body toxicity if used in high doses. Recommendations; Larger structured studies should be carried out to generate more reliable safety information on this product and other herbal products in general. This information should then be availed to the general public and the necessary authorities before these products are released for use. Consumers should also make an effort to equip themselves with necessary information regarding the safety of these herbal products before using them, especially those meant for long terrn use