INDUCTION OF CYTO-GENOTOXICITY IN ONION ROOT CELLS (ALLIUM CEPA) OF KRATOM DRINKS

Abstract

Kratom (Mitragyna speciosa Korth., Havil.) is found in natural forests in southern Thailand and classified as a psychoactive plant. Traditional consumption of kratom is fresh leaves use. But nowadays, young southern people consume kratom by boiling and mixing it with other ingredients. This may affect to the health in a long term. Therefore, to evaluate the effects of consuming kratom drinks, the objective of this research was to study the induction of cytotoxicity and genetic material in onion root cells soaked in three formulas of kratom water drinks (Kratom water, Kratom water mixed with cough syrup and Kratom water mixed with cough syrup and soft drinks) for 72 hours. The study found that all formulas of kratom water drink slowed down the growth of onion root tips and change their physical appearance. The toxicity study on cell division and chromosome abnormalities found that kratom water mixed with cough syrup and soft drinks resulted in lowest decrease in the mitotic index of 19.37±2.46, the frequency of chromosomal abnormalities increased by 3.47±3.38 percent, and the total protein content significantly decreased to 528.83±169.10 micrograms per milliliter compared to the control. Many forms of chromosomal abnormalities were observed under a microscope. Therefore, in order to get the most benefit from this research, it should be accelerated to create awareness of the negative effects that occur to consumers.