Untitled

Abstract

This study looked at heavy metal levels in selected registered herbal drugs of Asian and unregistered Ghanaian herbal drugs sold in Kumasi. It examined the health risks of the metals. It provided authorities with data to ensure that herbal drugs are strictly monitored and their metal levels evaluated to safeguard patrons' health. Dry ashing method was used on 10g of each of the herbal drug samples. Ashes were digested at 95 ºC with 70% HNO 3 and 70% HClO 4 (2:5v/v), and then metals were analyzed using Atomic Absorption Spectrophotometer (AAS). The Asian drugs recorded 27.42E-01 mg/kg (Fe), 28.17E-0 4 mg/kg (Pb), 27.43E-0 4 mg/kg, 12.06E-06E-0 2 mg/kg (As) and 79.72E-0 2 mg/kg (Cu) whilst the Ghanaian drugs recorded mean levels of 15.43E-01 mg/kg (Fe), 24.99E-02 mg/kg (Pb), 16.04E-03 mg/kg, 47.70E-0 4 mg/kg (AS) and 12.37E-0 4 mg/kg. Metal levels in drugs were below WHO and Pharmacopeia (China) permitted levels. HI and HQ were below 1, indicating that risk linked to the metals were acceptable. INTRODUCTION:Globally, approximately 80% of the population depend on herbal remedies to treat and manage diseases such as diabetes, stroke, and hypertension, among others 1 . Herbal drugs play a vital role in the healthcare delivery schemes of numerous countries and are either selfprescribed or recommended by herbal practitioners QUICK RESPONSE CODE