Evaluation of Heavy Metal Contamination in Polyherbal Cancer Remedies and its Implication for Renal Health

The rising global use of polyherbal cancer remedies, particularly in resource-limited settings, has raised urgent toxicological concerns. These formulations are often consumed concurrently with chemotherapeutic agents, compounding potential nephrotoxic risks. This study investigated heavy-metal contamination in two marketed polyherbal cancer formulations and assessed their impact on renal function using Wistar rat models. Two formulations (Agbo A and Agbo B) were analyzed for heavy-metal content by atomic absorption spectrophotometry and profiled phytochemically using GC–MS. Sixty Wistar rats were randomized into ten treatment groups and administered sorafenib, carbon tetrachloride (CCl4), and/or the herbal formulations for three weeks. Serum creatinine, sodium, potassium, and malondialdehyde (MDA) were determined using validated biochemical assays. Data were analyzed by ANOVA and Pearson correlation (p < 0.05). Lead (1.029-0.853 ppm), cadmium (0.772-0.405 ppm), and mercury (0.236-0.100 ppm) levels exceeded WHO safety limits. Rats receiving herbal–drug combinations exhibited significant elevations in creatinine and MDA, with a strong positive correlation between creatinine and potassium (p = 0.006), suggesting oxidative renal injury. GC–MS analysis revealed bioactive compounds with anticancer potential coexisting with toxic metallic residues. Polyherbal cancer formulations evaluated in this study contain nephrotoxic heavy metals capable of inducing8 oxidative stress and renal dysfunction. Although phytochemicals with pharmacological potential were identified, the toxic contamination negates therapeutic benefits. Rigorous regulatory oversight, quality control, and public education are essential to ensure the safe integration of traditional herbal remedies into contemporary cancer care.