Patented Herbal Fermented Elixir for Heavy Metal Detoxification Based on Eryngium creticum. [Patent No. 1142]

Background Heavy metal toxicity represents a major global public health concern due to its cumulative nature and persistence in the environment. Toxic metals such as lead (Pb), cadmium (Cd), mercury (Hg), and arsenic (As) are widely recognized for their harmful effects on vital organs, including the brain, liver, kidneys, and hematopoietic system. These metals accumulate in biological tissues and interfere with enzymatic systems by binding to thiol groups, while also inducing oxidative stress through reactive oxygen species generation. Conventional chelation therapies, although effective in acute poisoning, are often costly and associated with side effects, limiting their accessibility. Traditional medical systems, particularly Arabic Traditional Medicine (ATM), have historically provided detoxification remedies such as fermented vinegar–honey preparations, documented by scholars like Ibn Sina and Ibn al-Nafis. These formulations provide a foundation for developing safe, natural, and cost-effective detoxification strategies. Objective This study aimed to develop and evaluate a novel herbal fermented elixir based on Eryngium creticum (Syrian eryngos) for the detoxification and chelation of heavy metals in the human body. The research further sought to validate its chemical composition, adsorption capacity, and clinical effectiveness, ultimately leading to the development of a patented detoxifying formulation. Methods The study was conducted through a multi-phase experimental approach: 1. Phytochemical analysis:Ethanolic extracts of Eryngium creticum leaves were prepared and analyzed using GC–MS (Gas Chromatography–Mass Spectrometry), identifying key bioactive compounds including aldehydes, fatty acids, esters, and halogenated derivatives. 2. In vitro biosorption study:The chelating capacity of the plant was evaluated using lead (Pb) solutions of varying concentrations. Adsorption efficiency was measured using atomic absorption spectrophotometry following established protocols. 3. Clinical observational study:A controlled study was conducted on refinery workers exposed to heavy metals: Control group: 20 individuals (office workers) Treated group: 50 individuals (exposed workers) Participants received 500 mg capsules of dried Eryngium creticum leaves twice daily for 6 months. Blood lead levels were measured before and during treatment. 4. Formulation development:A fermented herbal elixir was prepared by combining Eryngium creticum with apple cider vinegar (Malus domestica) and natural wildflower honey, following a green extraction and fermentation process inspired by traditional Arabic pharmaceutics. Results Phytochemical analysis confirmed the presence of multiple bioactive compounds with potential chelating and antioxidant activity. In vitro biosorption demonstrated high efficiency in lead removal, reaching up to 87.4% at 2 mg/L concentration. Clinical findings showed: Elevated baseline blood lead levels in exposed workers (~30 µg/L), exceeding recommended limits. A progressive reduction in blood lead levels, reaching approximately 50% decrease after 6 months of treatment. These results confirm the significant chelating and detoxifying potential of Eryngium creticum. Discussion The developed formulation represents a successful integration of traditional knowledge and modern scientific validation. The detoxifying effect is likely attributed to: Organic acids and phytochemicals forming soluble, low-toxicity complexes with heavy metals Antioxidant compounds reducing oxidative stress Potential stimulation of hepatic detoxification pathways The fermentation process enhances bioavailability and stability, while the use of natural ingredients ensures safety and accessibility. Additionally, the formulation may have preventive applications for populations at risk of chronic exposure, such as industrial workers. Importantly, this research resulted in the development and registration of a patented herbal detoxification elixir, demonstrating its novelty, industrial applicability, and translational value.