Phytochemical and toxicological analysis of Albizia falcataria sawdust

Abstract

Albizia falcataria is a tropical hardwood tree extensively used in South East Asia, which has been reported as a causal agent of upper respiratory health problems through occupational exposure to sawdust. Limited data exist on its phytochemical profile, sawdust properties and toxicological effects. In this study, alkaloids, anthraquinones, flavonoids, saponins, steroids, tannins and triterpenoids were detected in A. falcataria sawdust. These compounds are not volatile, suggesting the route of exposure to be direct ingestion or physical contact with the sawdust. Toxicological screening with the bioluminescent bacterium, Vibrio fischeri exposed to aqueous (3·5% w/v NaCl) extracts of A. falcataria sawdust showed mean EC₅₀ greater than 9800 mg L⁻¹ for 5–30 min exposures. Microscopic analysis shows irregular sawdust morphology that can lead to irritation, and exacerbate health effects due to wood cell bound chemical exposure. It is recommended that A. falcataria be handled as a toxic wood species.