Heavy metals in Danggui (Angelica sinensis) consumed by postpartum mothers and its health risk. Malaysian Journal of Medicine and Health Sciences, 16 (3). pp. 113-117. ISSN 2636-9346 (2020)
Abstract
Introduction: Consumption of Chinese Herbal Medicine (CHMs) have escalated globally. They are preferred treatment for minor diseases or disorders. In Malaysia, CHMs are common home remedies during pregnancy and postpartum. Angelica sinensis (Danggui) is a staple CHMs during postpartum for purpose of nourishing blood and resolving stasis. Concerns are raised over possible heavy metals toxicity. Objective: This study aims to (i) determine Danggui consumption among postpartum mothers, (ii) quantify its heavy metals level, namely Lead (Pb), Cadmium (Cd), Arsenic (As) and Chromium (Cr) and (iii) determine health risks of Danggui consumption among mothers.
Methods: A cross-sectional study involving 112 postpartum mothers was carried out in Kuala Lumpur. Danggui samples were collected from nine districts in Kuala Lumpur (Segambut, Seputeh, Cheras, Kepong, Bandar Tun Razak, Titiwangsa, Setiawangsa, Batu and Lembah Pantai). Heavy metals were extracted using microwave digester and analysed usingInductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (ICPMS). Hazard Quotient (HQ) was used to determine non-carcinogenic health risks for herbal medicine consumption.
Results: Danggui was consumed by 19.6% of mothers (n=22). Among them, incidence of jaundice was 63.6% and need for phototherapy was 40.9%. Heavy metals contaminations were found in the decreasing order of Cr > As > Pb > Cd with median (interquartile) of 3996.3 (2805.6) μg/ kg, 128.3 (56.7), 98.6 (99.1) and 37.0 (35.0) respectively. No non-carcinogenic health risks were found for all fourmetals.
Conclusion: Alarming concentrations of heavy metals were quantified in Danggui warranting for further investigation to safeguard health of postpartum mothers.
| Item Type: | Article |
|---|---|
| Keywords: | Angelica sinensis (Danggui), Pregnant and postpartum mothers, Heavy metals exposure, Non-carcinogenic health risk, Chinese herbal medicines |
| Taxonomy: | By Subject > Medicine > Obstetrics |
| Local Content Hub: | Subjects > Medicine |
| Depositing User: | Adi Azri Mohamad (Sg. Buloh) |
| Date Deposited: | 08 Oct 2021 23:54 |
| Last Modified: | 14 Oct 2021 07:02 |
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