Investigation of Heavy Metal Contents in Thyme (Thymus vulgaris) and Ginger (Zingiber officinale) Sold in Bingöl Herbalists

Abstract

Objective: In our country, which is rich in medicinal plant diversity, there is an increase in heavy metal accumulation with the increase of industrial development and environmental pollution. The aim is to evaluate the health safety of heavy metal content of thyme and ginger plants, which are frequently used for therapeutic purposes, sold in herbalists. Methods: In this study, heavy metal (Cr, Fe, Co, Ni, Cu, Zn, As, Cd, Hg, Pb) levels in thyme (Thymus vulgaris) and ginger (Zingiber officinale) plant samples obtained from three different herbalists in Bingöl were determined by ICP-MS. Results: Fe, Zn, Cd and Pb levels in both thyme and ginger samples, Cr levels in thyme samples and Cu levels in ginger samples were above the safe limit values for health. In the thyme and ginger samples, Co, Ni, Cr levels in ginger samples and As levels in thyme samples were found to be in the safe range for health Conclusion: As a result; it is noteworthy that some heavy metals in medicinal plants used for therapeutic purposes in this study are above the recommended critical levels. Considering the possibility of exposure to heavy metals while consuming medicinal plants, regular monitoring of heavy metal concentrations in plants is important in order to minimize the risks that may adversely affect human health