Pilot and Acute Toxicity Studies on Sodium Chloride Administered Orally in WistarRats

Abstract

Salt, also known as sodium chloride (NaCl), is about 60% chloride and 40% sodium. It flavors and preserves food. It is also used as a binder and stabilizer. The human body requires a minute amount of sodium to maintain the proper balance of water and minerals, conduct nerve impulses, contract and relax muscles. It is estimated that human need about 500 mg of sodium daily for these functions. A pilot and acute toxicity studies were carried out to determine the LD100 and LDS50 of sodium chloride administered orally. A total of 34 Wistar rats weighing between 150-160g were used in this study. Ten (10) rats were used for the determination of LD100 of sodium chloride administered orally with the following doses as 0.0 g/kg, 2.5 g/kg, 5.0 g/kg, 10.0 g/kg, 15.0 g/kg, 20.0 g/kg, 22.5 g/kg, 30.0 g/kg and 40.0 g/kg respectively. In the acute toxicity study, 24 rats were divided into six (6) groups of 4 rats each. They were treated orally with the following doses as 0.0 g/kg, 2.5 g/kg, 5.0 g/kg, 10.0 g/kg, 15.0 g/kg and 20.0 g/kg respectively. From these findings, the LD100 and LDS0 obtained were found to be 20.0 g/kg and 13.12 g/kg respectively. Based on the LD50 obtained, sodium chloride could be classified as practically non-toxic substance according to Matsumura toxicity rating of chemical when administered orally.