Heavy metals, aflatoxins, pesticide residues and microbial load determination in designed polyherbal formulation used against uterine fibroid

Herbal medicines have been used for centuries to treat diverse health conditions and are increasingly sought after as people pursue natural, holistic care. Growing global concerns about the safety of herbal formulations, however, demand rigorous evaluation for contaminants such as heavy metals, aflatoxins, pesticides, and microbial pathogens. This study assessed the safety and quality of a polyherbal formulation developed for the management of uterine fibroids. Comprehensive screening included inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (ICP-MS) for heavy metals (arsenic, lead, mercury, cadmium), liquid chromatography–tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS) for aflatoxins, gas chromatography–tandem mass spectrometry (GC-MS/MS) for pesticide residues, and standard microbial assays for total viable counts and pathogenic organisms. Results showed heavy metal and aflatoxin levels within acceptable limits, no detectable pesticide residues, and minimal microbial load with no pathogens. These findings align with WHO and API standards, confirming the formulation’s safety and supporting its suitability for preclinical and clinical evaluation in uterine fibroid management.