Health risk assessment of toxic metal(loids) (As, Cd, Pb, Cr, and Co) via consumption of medicinal herbs marketed in Malawi.

ABSTRACT: This study aimed to assess the potential health risks associated with consuming three commonly consumed medicinal herbs in Malawi: Azadirachta indica, Mondia whitei, and Moringa oleifera. The concentrations of five metal(loids) (As, Cd, Pb, Cr, and Co) were determined using inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry, while their safety was assessed by comparing the measured values with the legislated maximum contaminant levels (MCL)and reported metal(loids) concentrations in other countries. The results indicated significant variations of metal(loids) concentrations amongst the studied medicinal herbs, with Azadirachta indica containing the highest mean As (0.078 ± 0.010 mg kg^-1) and Cd (0.049 ± 0.05 mg kg^-1) concentrations and Mondia

SUBMITTER: Mlangeni AT 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC10393791 | biostudies-literature | 2023 Dec

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature