Physicochemical Properties of Medicinal Clays from Edo State, Southern Nigeria.

The physicochemical properties of medicinal clay from Edo State were investigated in this study to evaluate its potential applications in pharmaceuticals. The research encompassed a comprehensive analysis of clay samples collected from different locations within Edo State, focusing on particle size distribution, swelling characteristics, pH variations, electrical conductivity, exchangeable bases, heavy metal concentrations, and mineralogical composition. Particle size analysis revealed distinct variations in clay composition across the sampled locations, with differences in the distribution of clay, silt, and sand particles influencing soil texture and suitability for use. Swelling characteristics testing provided insights into the behavior of clay samples under controlled conditions, highlighting variations in swelling potential among different locations. Evaluation of pH variations indicated notable differences in clay acidity levels, with implications for nutrient availability, microbial activity, and overall clay health. Electrical conductivity analysis offered insights into the presence of soluble salts or ionic species in medicinal clay samples, which are consumed for their perceived nutritional and medicinal benefits. Assessment of exchangeable bases provided information on the concentrations of essential minerals such as calcium, magnesium, potassium, and sodium in clay samples, with implications for their potential health benefits or risks when consumed. Heavy metal concentration analysis revealed variations in contamination levels among sampled locations, with implications for clay quality. Mineralogical composition analysis provided detailed insights into the mineral constituents of clay samples, shedding light on their properties and potential applications. The Study contributes to the understanding of the physicochemical properties of medicinal clay from Edo State, and its potential application in pharmaceuticals.