Elemental analysis of some medicinal plants used in traditional medicine by atomic absorption spectrophotometer (AAS)

Abstract

Different elemental constituents at trace levels of plants play an effective role in the medicines prepared. Elemental composition of different parts including leaves, seeds and fruits have been determined by using Atomic Absorption Spectrophotometer (AAS). A total of 14 elements K+, Mg+2, Ca+2, Na+, Fe+2, Co+3, Mn+2, Cu+3, Cr+3, Zn+2, Ni+3, Li+1, Pb+4 and Cd+2 have been measured. Their concentrations were found to vary in different samples. Medicinal properties of these plant samples and their elemental distribution have been correlated.    Key words: Elemental analysis, medicinal plants and atomic absorption spectrophotometer.