Toxicological and Physicochemical Profiling of Unlabeled Herbal Alcoholic Beverages Marketed in Ekiti State

Unlabeled herbal alcoholic beverages are widely consumed in Nigeria, often without regulatory oversight. This study evaluated seven such beverages (UH1-UH7) sourced from local markets in Ekiti State for their physicochemical, microbiological, and toxicological profiles. Seven samples (UH1–UH7) were analyzed for pH, specific gravity, total dissolved solids (TDS), and alcohol content. Microbial loads were determined using standard plate count and fungal isolation methods. Cytotoxicity was assessed via the Allium cepa assay, and in vivo toxicity was evaluated using Drosophila melanogaster. Ethanol concentration ranged from 27.3% to 75.1% v/v with methanol levels peaking at 161 mg/L in UH6 exceeding safety thresholds. All samples were mildly acidic (pH 4.1-4.6) and contained high total solids and turbidity. Phytochemical screening showed varying presence of alkaloids, flavonoids, saponins and phenols with UH6 and UH7 exhibiting higher tannin and phenol content. Heavy metal analysis revealed elevated chromium (0.97 mg/L in UH7) while cadmium and lead were undetectable. Microbiological assays detected coliforms, E.coli, salmonella and Staphylococcus aureus in multiple samples, particularly UH5-UH7. The Allium cepa assay revealed significant cytotoxicity and genotoxicity in UH3, UH6, and UH7 WITH > 54% root growth inhibition and mitotic index ≤ 4.5%. Drosophila melanogaster toxicity tests confirmed reduced survival (< 46%), impaired climbing ability, and increased oxidative stress biomarkers in the same samples. Overall, UH6 and UH7 presented the highest toxicological and microbiological risks. These findings highlight the urgent need for regulation, quality control and public health awareness regarding the production and consumption of such herbal beverages