Tehran University of Medical Sciences

Science Communicator Platform

Stay connected! Follow us on X network (Twitter):
Share this content! On (X network) By
Human Health Risk Assessment of Potentially Toxic and Essential Elements in Medicinal Plants Consumed in Zabol, Iran, Using the Monte Carlo Simulation Method Publisher Pubmed



Ebrahimzadeh G1, 2 ; Omer AK3 ; Naderi M4 ; Sharafi K5
Authors
Show Affiliations
Authors Affiliations
  1. 1. Department of Environmental Health Engineering, School of Public Health, Zabol University of Medical Sciences, Zabol, Iran
  2. 2. Zabol Medicinal Plants Research Center, Zabol University of Medical Sciences, Zabol, Iran
  3. 3. Department of Food Hygiene and Quality Control, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Urmia University, Urmia, Iran
  4. 4. Department of Environmental Health Engineering, School of Public Health, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
  5. 5. Social Development and Health Promotion Research Center, Health Institute, Kermanshah University of Medical Sciences, Kermanshah, Iran

Source: Scientific Reports Published:2024


Abstract

Medicinal plants (MPs) have long been used for their therapeutic properties in traditional forms of medicine. However, the presence of potentially toxic elements (PTEs) in MPs raises concerns about their safety, efficacy, and potential adverse effects on human health. The current study aimed to determine the level of potentially toxic and essential elements (PTEEs) in commonly consumed MPs in Zabol, Iran, along with their health risk assessments. To conduct the present study, 10 types of MPs widely used in Zabol, Iran, were selected, and 15 samples of each type (150 samples in total) were taken. Each sample was analyzed for the presence of various PTEEs using Inductively Coupled Plasma Optical Emission Spectroscopy (ICP-OES) for Lead (Pb), cadmium (Cd), chrome (Cr), nickel (Ni), copper (Cu), zinc (Zn), iron (Fe), aluminum (Al) and manganese (Mn); and Atomic Absorption Spectrometry (AAS) for arsenic (As) and mercury (Hg). Finally, to better comprehend the scope of exposure and its possible effects, the Monte Carlo simulation method is successfully applied to assess human health risks related to PTEs in MPs. Statistical analysis revealed statistically significant (P < 0.001) variations in PTE averages among MP types. Furthermore, all samples’ overall PTE mean concentration (range: 0.18 to 215.5 µg/kg) was below the World Health Organization’s (WHO) regulatory standards. Probabilistic health risks, including non-carcinogenic-target hazard quotient (THQ) for each element, total target hazard quotient (TTHQ) for all elements, and carcinogenic-incremental lifetime cancer risk (ILCR) for each element, and total carcinogenic risk (TCR) for all elements, were significantly lower than the acceptable limit for children and adults. Accordingly, it can be said that consuming MPs sold in Zabol is safe for children and adults regarding carcinogenic (ILCR/TCR = 10− 4) and non-carcinogenic (THQ/TTHQ = 1) effects. In light of the findings presented here, and to our understanding, the primary factor contributing to lower levels of PTEs in MPs in Zabol City markets is the cultivation of plants in nonindustrialized areas, separate from urban and industrial zones. This practice keeps them from environmental contaminations, including soil quality and water sources. It is recommended that it is essential to regulate the sources that enhance the transfer of PTEs and other harmful pollutants from surroundings to the soil and, consequently, MPs. It is also suggested that, like chemical drugs, MPs should undergo rigorous testing by quality control agencies before being made available to the market. © The Author(s) 2024.
Experts (# of related papers)
Other Related Docs