Indigenous Knowledge and Phytochemical Screening of Antihypertensive Plants in Benin with Evaluation of Larval Toxicity

Background and Objective: Due to the high cost of healthcare, several African countries are increasingly turning to medicinal plants as alternative therapies. In Africa, species such as Persea americana, Heliotropium indicum, Parkia biglobosa, Mangifera indica, and Newbouldia laevis are recognized for their antihypertensive properties; however, their phytochemical composition and toxicity profiles remain poorly documented. This study aimed to analyze the phytochemical composition and larval toxicity of five medicinal plants used for hypertension treatment in Benin. Materials and Methods: Plant samples were collected from the Baka experimental site (University of Parakou, Benin), dried, powdered, and extracted using aqueous maceration and decoction methods. Phytochemical screening was performed using standard qualitative tests, and larval cytotoxicity was evaluated using the Artemia salina assay. The LC₅₀ values were determined by logarithmic regression analysis of dose-response data. Results: Phytochemical screening revealed the presence of several bioactive compounds, including tannins, flavonoids, anthocyanins, saponosides, and reducing compounds. The LC₅₀ analysis indicated no significant toxicity at the tested concentrations, with values ranging from 0.42 to 1.18 mg/mL for Heliotropium indicum and Mangifera indica, respectively. Moreover, no toxic compounds, such as cardiotonic heterosides or cyanogenic derivatives, were detected. Conclusion: These findings suggest that the studied plant extracts have potential therapeutic value for hypertension management with a favorable safety profile. However, further quantitative phytochemical analysis and preclinical and clinical studies are required to confirm their efficacy and safety.