Investigation of Heavy Metals Content in Artemisia Herba-Alba Grown in Libya

Abstract

The use of herbal and traditional remedies has become more popular in recent years, and there is growing worry that these treatments may be contaminated with heavy metals. This study measured the heavy metal concentrations in Artemisia herba-alba that is grown in natural sites in Gharyan and Qasar Ben Ghesheer Libya. Using inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry, the concentrations of eleven heavy metals (As, Ba, Cd, Cr, Cu, Fe, Mn, Ni, Pb, Sr, Zn) were measured. The concentrations of all heavy metals, except Ba, Pb, and Sr, were within the permissible limits. The Pb is concentrated in high level in stem than the leaves. Whereas the Ba and Sr are concentrated more in the leaves than in the stems. The plants from Gasser Ben Ghesheer had toxic level from Ba, Ni, and Sr, while plants collected from Gharyan had toxic level of Ba, Pb, and Sr. The plant’s parts and the growing site have an effect on the level of heavy metals. In order to ensure safety of Artemisia, an ongoing monitoring plan of heavy metal residues should be applied, and strict measures to prevent pollution should be imposed.