Analyzing Heavy Metals and Minerals in Methanolic Leaves, Stem, and Root Extracts of Bryophyllum pinnatum, Cochlospermum tintorium, and Erythrina senegalensis: Exploring the Public Health Implications

Abstract

This study investigated the distribution of heavy metals and mineral elements in the methanolic extracts of leaves, roots, and stems of Bryophyllum pinnatum, Cochlospermum tintorium, and Erythrina senegalensis in Takum, Taraba State. The concentrations of these elements were analyzed using atomic absorption spectroscopy, after collection, identification, shade drying, and extraction using methanol. Cochlospermum tintorium exhibited varying concentrations of heavy metals, with the leaf having the highest chromium content (0.15mg/kg) and the lowest lead concentration (0.07mg/kg). Bryophyllum pinnatum had elevated levels of cadmium and chromium in the leaf (0.05mg/kg) and stem bark (0.42mg/kg), respectively. Erythrina senegalensis had high cadmium concentration in the leaf (0.19mg/kg) and elevated lead levels in the stem bark (0.11mg/kg). Mineral element distribution in Cochlospermum tintorium revealed high potassium concentrations in all plant parts, with the root having the highest (187.98mg/kg). Bryophyllum pinnatum exhibited the highest potassium concentration in the leaf (168.18mg/kg), while Erythrina senegalensis showed the highest concentration in the leaf (182.73mg/kg). Calcium concentrations were high in the roots of Cochlospermum tintorium (83.33mg/kg). Potassium levels were within the safety standards set by the World Health Organization. A comparative analysis of heavy metals revealed that all samples complied with WHO permissible limits, except for lead, which slightly exceeded the limit in the stem bark of Bryophyllum pinnatum. Mineral elements such as calcium and potassium were well distributed in all plant parts. The study showed that heavy metals and mineral elements were within permissible limits, thus supporting their prolonged use in traditional medicine.