Title: Analysis of essential trace elements in some traditional Indian medicinal plants using instrumental neutron activation analysis and atomic absorption spectroscopy techniques

Authors: Ram S. Lokhande, Mahadeo L. Andhale, Pravin U. Singare

Addresses: Department of Chemistry, University of Mumbai, Vidyanagari, Santacruz, Mumbai 400098, India. ' Department of Chemistry, University of Mumbai, Vidyanagari, Santacruz, Mumbai 400098, India. ' Department of Chemistry, Bhavan's College, Munshi Nagar, Andheri, Mumbai 400058, India

Abstract: Specific parts (fruits and leaves) of different medicinal plants often used in Indian Ayurvedic system were analysed for 18 elements (K, Mn, Na, Fe, Zn, Cu, Co, Br, Sm, Cl, La, Al, Cr, Ca Cd, Ni, Pb and Hg) by employing instrumental neutron activation analysis (INAA) and atomic absorption spectroscopy (AAS) techniques. The samples were irradiated with thermal neutrons in a nuclear reactor and the induced activities were counted by γ-ray spectrometry using efficiency calibrated high resolution high purity germanium (HPGe) detector. Most of the medicinal plants were found to be rich in one or more of the elements under study. The elemental concentration in different part of medicinal plants and their biological effects on human beings are discussed.

Keywords: instrumental neutron activation analysis; INAA; atomic absorption spectroscopy; AAS; medicinal plants; trace elements; inter-elemental correlations; healthcare; Ayurvedic medicine; biological effects; curative properties; India.

DOI: 10.1504/IJIS.2011.041726

International Journal of Immunological Studies, 2011 Vol.1 No.3, pp.285 - 296

Published online: 30 Dec 2014 *