Elemental Composition and Physicochemical Properties of Geophagic Clay (‘Eko’), From Ubiaja in Edo State, Nigeria

Abstract

In Edo State, Nigeria, geophagia (‘Eko’) is highly prevalent, and men and women, especially pregnant women, are believed to indulge in its consumption as a remedy for vomiting (nausea) and some other related inconveniences in pregnancy. Others are due to a natural craving. These practices are associated with varying health complications; as such, it is pertinent that the physical and chemical composition of the clay be known. In this study, we assessed the levels of heavy metals and trace elements of clinical importance in ‘Eko’, as well as their physical and chemical properties using standard protocols. Tests conducted include: colour, pH, electrical conductivity (EC), cation exchange capacity (CEC), total dissolved solids (TDS), particle density, and concentrations of metals [chloride (Cl), sulphate (S), calcium (Ca), sodium (Na), magnesium (Mg), potassium (K), aluminium (Al), iron (Fe), copper (Cu), manganese (Mn), zinc (Zn), chromium (Cr), lead (Pb) and cadmium (Cd)]. The results obtained showed that some of the elements (Cl, Ca, Na and Mg) are present in moderate concentrations (353.33, 182.33, 216, 111.33 mg/kg) respectively. However, concentrations of some of the heavy metals [(Cd, Pb and Cr) (0.30, 0.26, 0.42 mg/kg) respectively], were higher than the permissible limits (65, 35, 25 µg/kg) set by WHO. Though some of the moderately present trace metals may play important biological roles, the high concentrations of some heavy metals could have detrimental health effects. Results from this study suggest that ‘Eko’ can predispose consumers to health hazards. As such, the continuous consumption of “Eko” should be discouraged