Aluminium and other elements in selected herbal tea plant species and their infusions

Assessment of heavy metals and human health risk associated with the consumption of crops cultivated in industrial areas of Maputo, Mozambique

This study aimed to evaluate heavy metals concentrations in soils and vegetables (cabbage, lettuce, and cassava) cultivated at Matola and Beluluane Industrial Parks, and to assess health risks linked to their consumption through estimated daily intake, hazard index (HI), and incremental lifetime cancer risk. Concentrations of Al, As, Co, Cd, Cr, Ni, Pb, and Zn were determined in the two sites. Soil concentrations of As at Beluluane site and As, Cd, and Cr at Matola site exceeded reference limits of the Food and Agriculture Organization/World Health Organization, showing heavy metal contamination. At Beluluane site, all studied vegetables presented As and Pb levels higher than reference limits, Cd concentrations were higher than the reference limit in cabbage, lettuce, and cassava leaves. At Matola site crops concentrations of As, Cd, Cr, and Pb exceeded the reference limits. Zinc exceeded the reference limit in all crops except in cabbage. HIs for vegetables from Beluluane exceeded 1.0 in cabbage (2.66), lettuce (2.27), and cassava leaves (2.37). Likewise, at Matola, HIs exceeded 1.0 in lettuce (1.67), cassava leaves (1.65), and root tubers (13). We found that vegetables cultivated in industrial parks present high carcinogenic risk due to heavy metal contamination, rendering them unsuitable for human consumption.

Chitosan Resin-Modified Glass Ionomer Cement Containing Epidermal Growth Factor Promotes Pulp Cell Proliferation with a Minimum Effect on Fluoride and Aluminum Release

The development of biomaterials that are able to control the release of bioactive molecules is a challenging task for regenerative dentistry. This study aimed to enhance resin-modified glass ionomer cement (RMGIC) for the release of epidermal growth factor (EGF). This RMGIC was formulated from RMGIC powder supplemented with 15% (w/w) chitosan at a molecular weight of either 62 or 545 kDa with 5% bovine serum albumin mixed with the same liquid component as the Vitrebond. EGF was added while mixing. ELISA was used to determine EGF release from the specimen immersed in phosphate-buffered saline at 1 h, 3 h, 24 h, 3 d, 1 wk, 2 wks, and 3 wks. Fluoride and aluminum release at 1, 3, 5, and 7 d was measured by electrode and inductively coupled plasma optical emission spectrometry. Pulp cell viability was examined through MTT assays and the counting of cell numbers using a Coulter counter. The RMGIC with 65 kDa chitosan is able to prolong the release of EGF for significantly longer than RMGIC for at least 3 wks due to its retained bioactivity in promoting pulp cell proliferation. This modified RMGIC can prolong the release of fluoride, with a small amount of aluminum also released for a limited time. This biomaterial could be useful in regenerating pulp-dentin complexes.

Development of a highly sensitive immunoassay for detecting aminopyrine abuse in herbal tea

With the popularity of herbal tea in China, many food fraudsters have added illegal drugs to herbal tea to enhance its functions, among which aminopyrine is widely abused as an antipyretic and analgesic. Presently, there is no immunoassays for aminopyrine, and it is difficult to achieve real-time detection in the field. Based on a polyclonal antibody of aminopyrine with high specificity and sensitivity, an optimal combination of coating antigen/antibody was obtained by screening different coating antigens. On this basis, a sensitive ic-ELISA method was established to detect aminopyrine in herbal tea. The detection limit of the ic-ELISA was 0.18 ng mL^-1, which was much lower than the 100 ng mL^-1 required as a standard. The method had good consistency with LC-MS in the detection of actual samples and could be used as a reliable method for the detection of aminopyrine in herbal tea.

Ion Beam Analysis of Proton-Induced X-ray Emission (PIXE) Techniques for Elemental Investigation of Young Stage Neem Leaf of Southern India, Tamil Nadu

Young stage neem leaf (Azadirachta indica) was collected at Thiruvallur district in Tamil Nadu, South India. Multi-elemental analysis of neem leaf was carried out using non-destructive techniques (NDT) of proton-induced X-ray emission (PIXE, 2.5 MeV) which is one of the well-known surface chemical sophisticated analytical methods of ion beam analyses (IBA). From the emitted X-ray output of the target specimen specimen fingerprint multi-elements such as, aluminium (Al), silicon (Si), phosphorus (P), sulphur (S), chloride (Cl), potassium (K), calcium (Ca), titanium (Ti), manganese (Mn), iron (Fe), copper (Cu), zinc (Zn) and strontium (Sr) are found to be present in the leaf in different ppm levels. Among the elements, silicon (Si, 42034 + 1198.0 ppm) and potassium (K, 28985 + 747.8 ppm) showed the highest concentration. Minor elements (Mn, Sr, Fe, Zn, Cu and Ti) are observed in the neem plant. The variation in elemental concentration in the leaf may be due to soil, water, etc. However, there are no toxic elements observed like arsenic and lead in the leaf. Further, though the presence of different medicinal values in the target specimen chemical multi-elements observed in ppm level. However, there are more chemical analysis to be required for the functionalization of active biomedical applications for these kinds of medicinal species.

Detection of Changes in Total Antioxidant Capacity, the Content of Polyphenols, Caffeine, and Heavy Metals of Teas in Relation to Their Origin and Fermentation

Tea (Camellia sinensis) is widely sought for beverages worldwide. Heavy metals are often the main aims of the survey of teas, given that the use of agricultural fertilization is very frequent. Some of these may affect the content of bioactive compounds. Therefore, in this study, we analyzed fermented and non-fermented teas of a single plant origin from Japan, Nepal, Korea, and China, and described mutual correlations and changes in the total antioxidant capacity (TAC), and the content of polyphenols (TPC), caffeine, and heavy metals in tea leaves, in relation to the origin and fermentation process. Using UV-VIS spectrophotometry and HPLC-DAD, we determined variations in bioactive compounds’ content in relation to the fermentation process and origin and observed negative correlations between TAC and TPC. Heavy metal content followed this order: Mn > Fe > Cu > Zn > Ni > Cr > Pb > Co > Cd > Hg. Given the homogenous content of these elements in relation to fermentation, this paper also describes the possibility of using heavy metals as determinants of geographical origin. Linear Discriminant Analysis showed an accuracy of 75% for Ni, Co, Cd, Hg, and Pb, explaining 95.19% of the variability between geographical regions.

Applied Analytical Methods for Detecting Heavy Metals in Medicinal Plants

For thousands of years, medicinal plants (MPs) have been one of the main sources of drugs worldwide. However, recently, heavy metal pollution has seriously affected the quality and safety of MPs. Consuming MPs polluted by heavy metals such as Pb, Hg, and Cu significantly threaten the health of consumers. To manage this situation, the levels of heavy metals in MPs must be controlled. In recent years, this field has attracted significant attention, but few researchers have systematically summarized various analytical methods. Therefore, it is necessary to investigate methods that can accurately and effectively detect the amount of heavy metals in MPs. Herein, some important analytical methods used to detect heavy metals in MPs and their applications have been introduced and summarized in detail. These include atomic absorption spectrometry, atomic fluorescence spectrometry, inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry, inductively coupled plasma atomic emission spectrometry, X-ray fluorescence spectrometry, neutron activation analysis, and anodic stripping voltammetry. The characteristics of these methods were subsequently compared and analyzed. In addition, high-performance liquid chromatography, ultraviolet spectrophotometry, and disposable electrochemical sensors have also been used for heavy metal detection in MPs. To elucidate the systematic and comprehensive information, these methods have also been briefly introduced in this review.

Mitochondrial Function as a Potential Tool for Assessing Function, Quality and Adulteration in Medicinal Herbal Teas

Quality control has been a significant issue in herbal medicine since herbs became widely used to heal. Modern technologies have improved the methods of evaluating the quality of medicinal herbs but the methods of adulterating them have also grown in sophistication. In this paper we undertook a comprehensive literature search to identify the key analytical techniques used in the quality control of herbal medicine, reviewing their uses and limitations. We also present a new tool, based on mitochondrial profiling, that can be used to measure medicinal herbal quality. Besides being fundamental to the energy metabolism required for most cellular activities, mitochondria play a direct role in cellular signalling, apoptosis, stress responses, inflammation, cancer, ageing, and neurological function, mirroring some of the most common reasons people take herbal medicines. A fingerprint of the specific mitochondrial effects of medicinal herbs can be documented in order to assess their potential efficacy, detect adulterations that modulate these effects and determine the relative potency of batches. Furthermore, through this method it will be possible to assess whole herbs or complex formulas thus avoiding the issues inherent in identifying active ingredients which may be complex or unknown. Thus, while current analytical methods focus on determining the chemical quality of herbal medicines, including adulteration and contamination, mitochondrial functional analysis offers a new way of determining the quality of plant derived products that is more closely linked to the biological activity of a product and its potential clinical effectiveness.

Probabilistic Risk Analysis to Assess Dietary Exposure to Aluminum in the Taiwanese Population

Aluminum (Al) exposure at human dietary levels raises health concerns, yet little is known about the Al exposure from the Taiwanese diet. The amount of aluminum (Al)-containing food consumption in the Taiwanese total diet is increasing, which contributes to the total diet consumption., which raises the health concerns. In this study, we aim to assess estimated weekly intake (EWI) and the percentage of provisional tolerable weekly intake (%PTWI) of the dietary exposure to Al in different age-sex groups. We also applied probabilistic risk analyses to quantify the parameters' uncertainty by focusing on the distribution function for the Al concentration in food, consumption rate, and body weight in specific age groups. Results indicated that the EWIs declined with increasing age after 6-years old (7-12 > 13-15 > 16-18 > 19-64 > 65+). Results indicated that the EWIs gradually declined after 6-year of age. The EWIs of Al-rich food in cake + waffle, kelp, snacks, and bread contributed 20%, 17%, 17%, and 11%, respectively, to the total EWIs, corresponding with the much higher consumption rates for these four foods. The 75th percentile of EWIs for the children aged 34-6 years had a %PTWI valued at over 100%, indicating a potential risk of Al intake via dietary exposure. Our findings show that there is a concern about the consumption of Al-rich foods for children in Taiwan.

Assessment of the nutritional value of various teas infusions in terms of the macro- and trace elements content

BACKGROUND

Herbal teas are a good alternative to traditional green, black, red and white teas. Herbal teas infusions are also consumed for therapeutic purposes. Teas are the source of many valuable, biologically active compounds, including elements. Infusions drawn up from various teas may be one of the minerals sources in a daily diet. In the study, an attempt was made to assess infusions prepared from popular teas in terms of the content of elements in them.

METHODS

In the work, the amounts of elements such as Ca (calcium), Cr (chromium), Cu (copper), Fe (iron), K (potassium), Mg (magnesium), Mn (manganese), Na (sodium), Ni (nickel) and Zn (zinc) were determined in herbal teas infusions as well as yerba mate and rooibos by atomic absorption spectrometry method (AAS). Their participation in covering the daily nutrient requirements for particular elements was also estimated.

RESULTS

The average amount (mg/g) of elements that passed from 1 g of teas to their infusions was following: Ca - 5.73 ± 3.33, K - 18.14 ± 9.50, Mg - 1.79 ± 3.47, Na - 1.34 ± 0.85, and (μg/g) for: Cr - 0.14 ± 0.14, Cu - 2.56 ± 1.53, Fe - 18.45 ± 11.90, Mn - 64.20 ± 88.82, Ni - 0.49 ± 0.30 and Zn - 10.77 ± 13.89. Among the tested teas, the infusions of hibiscus, horsetail, nettle, rooibos and yerba mate contained the largest quantities of minerals. A significant positive correlation was determined between the pH value of infusion and Mg content, as well as some pairs of correlating elements (Ca-K, Ca-Mg, Cr-Mg, Cu-Zn and K-Mg) were found in the analyzed brews.

CONCLUSIONS

Generally, the infusions of herbal teas to a small extent cover the daily allowance for elements, however they are a valuable complementary source of them.

Assessment of As, Cd, Cu, Fe, Pb, and Zn concentrations in soil and parts of Rosa spp. sampled in extremely polluted environment

This research was conducted in order to determine As, Cd, Cu, Fe, Pb, and Zn concentrations in soil and parts of wild rose (Rosa spp., predominantly Rosa canina L.) in the Bor area, known for more than 100 years of mining and pyrometallurgical production of copper, as well as to determine the possibility of its usage as an environmental indicator or for phytoremediation. The results showed that the sampled soils were highly contaminated with As and Cu, since the obtained concentrations exceeded the corresponding limit and remediation values. The soil samples from the sites which were closest to the Mining-Metallurgical Complex or in the prevailing wind directions were most enriched with the analyzed elements. According to the element analysis in the parts of Rosa spp., branches, leaves, and roots contained higher concentrations of the studied elements than the fruits. Based on the values of the biological factors, it can be concluded that Rosa spp. restricted the absorption of the elements from the soil. Since the absorption rates from soil to roots were low for all the studied elements, Rosa spp. was not suitable for the phytoextraction or phytostabilization. Statistically significant positive correlations of the elements in the soil and parts of Rosa spp. indicated their anthropogenic origin. Differences in the element concentrations in the plant parts and the soil samples from the background and the sites which were under the influence of the emissions from the Mining-Metallurgical Complex indicated that Rosa spp. had a potential for usage in biomonitoring.

Multielement analysis of plant extracts with potential use in the treatment of peptic ulcers by synchrotron radiation total reflection X-ray fluorescence

Some plants popularly employed for the treatment of peptic ulcers have proved to be attractive sources of new drugs. Despite extensive research, the pharmacological and toxicological potentials of these plants are not fully understood. In this context, the aim of this work was to analyze the multielemental composition of the methanolic extracts of three of those plants, Alchornea glandulosa (AG), Davilla elliptica (DE) and Davilla nitida (DN), with the intention of contributing to the understanding of the mechanisms of action of these extracts. For this purpose, we used the analytical technique of total reflection X-ray fluorescence (TXRF) by synchrotron radiation at the Brazilian Synchrotron Light Source (LNLS/CNPEM). It was possible to determine the concentrations of the elements: P, S, Cl, K, Ca, Ti, Cr, Mn, Fe, Ni, Cu, Zn, Rb and Br in all of the samples. Selenium (Se) was detected only in the DN extract. An inverse relationship between the concentrations of elements with proven effectiveness and the gastroprotective activity of extracts considering induction protocols with ethanol and non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) was obtained. This data suggests that the function of the extract is not only associated with providing the elements for restoring the gastric mucosa but that it also promotes the displacement of these elements from other parts of the mucosa to the damaged area. Correlations between the concentrations of the elements were also obtained. In the DE extract, which is the most effective extract for both induction protocols, the obtained correlations were above 70% among almost all of the elements, and no anticorrelations were found. For the other two extracts, in the less effective extract (AG) anticorrelations above 70% were predominantly found. Meanwhile, in the DN extract, a few high anticorrelations were found, which may explain its intermediate stage of effectiveness.

Understanding element composition of medicinal plants used in herbalism-A case study by analytical atomic spectrometry

This review article is focused on element composition of medicinal plants and herbs as well as their decoctions and infusions determined by atomic spectrometry methods. Considering quality and safety of these herbal beverages, widely practiced in herbalism for medicinal and supplementing purposes, element analysis is important, and quality of its results should not raise any doubts about reliability. Hence, original researches devoted to element analysis of decoctions and infusions of medicinal plants and herbs, published after 2000, have been surveyed in details, particularly focusing on sources of elements in medicinal plants, their availability for the intake during preparation of infusions and decoctions as well as different methodological aspects related to element analysis by atomic spectrometry, including sample pretreatment and preparation before measurements, calibration methods used, and verification of reliability of results.

Chemical Speciation and Characterization of Trace Metals in Dry Camellia sinensis and Herbal Tea Marketed in Nigeria

BACKGROUND

Trace metals from anthropogenic activities have been found to occur in tea brands and pose potential human health risks to consumers.

OBJECTIVES

The present study assessed the concentrations of trace metals in green, black and herbal tea brands using a modified Community Bureau of Reference sequential extraction method.

METHODS

Fifteen (15) Camellia sinensis and eight (8) herbal tea samples commonly consumed in Nigeria were collected and analyzed for trace metals. The concentrations of cadmium (Cd), chromium (Cr), copper (Cu), manganese (Mn), nickel (Ni), lead (Pb), vanadium (V), and zinc (Zn) in extract fractions were analyzed using microwave plasma atomic emission spectroscopy (MP-AES).

RESULTS

Trace metals were detected in all of the samples investigated. The concentrations of trace metals in 4 stages (soluble/exchangeable/carbonates bound fraction, reducible fraction, oxidizable fraction, residual fraction) of sequential and pseudo-total metal extraction procedures are presented. The concentrations of Cd, Cr, Cu, Mn, Ni, Pb, V, and Zn in the exchangeable/carbonate bound fraction for green tea ranged between 0.27-1.47, ND-0.33, ND-0.44, 7.05-33.04, 0.23-0.69, ND-0.51, ND-0.16 and 0.18-1.99 mg/kg, ND-0.73, 0.15-0.36, 0.36-0.59, 1.38-30.07, 0.15-0.54, 0.05-0.76, 0.15-0.34 and 0.27-0.77 mg/kg and 0.54-0.64, 0.25-0.41, 0.35-0.47, 18.72-23.98, 0.30-0.55, 0.15-0.21, 0.15-0.23 and 0.30-0.48 mg/kg for hebal tea, respectively.

CONCLUSION

The metal content in the investigated tea indicated low to enhanced concentrations. Locally produced black teas recorded relatively low trace metal contents compared to the green and herbal tea samples. The most bioavailable trace metal was Mn, while Zn was most preferably bound to the residual fraction. Cadmium, Cr, Cu, Ni, Pb, and V were distributed at varied concentrations among other extractable phases. Daily consumption of the investigated tea products may expose consumers to potentially toxic metals as well as essential elements.

COMPETING INTERESTS

The authors declare no competing financial interests.

Determination of Heavy Metals in Almonds and Mistletoe as a Parasite Growing on the Almond Tree Using ICP-OES or ICP-MS

In this study, the elements of Al, As, B, Ba, Ca, Cd, Co, Cr, Cu, Fe, K, Mg, Mn, Mo, Ni, Sr, Pb, Ti, and Zn were determined in the leaves, fruits, and branches of mistletoe, (Viscum albüm L.), used as a medicinal plant, and in the leaves, branches and barks of almond tree which mistletoe grows on. The aim of the study is to investigate whether the mistletoe are more absorbent than the almond tree in terms of the heavy metal contents and the determination of the amount of the elements penetrated into the mistletoe from the almond tree. ICP-MS (inductively coupled plasma-mass spectrometry) was used for the analysis of As, Cd, Mo, and Pb, whereas ICP-OES (inductively coupled plasma optical emission spectrometry) was used for the other elements. The results obtained were statistically evaluated at 95% confidence level. Within the results obtained in this study, it was determined whether there is a significant difference between metal elements in almond tree and mistletoe, or not. As a result, it was observed that there were higher contents of B, Ba, K, Mg, and Zn in the mistletoe than in the almond tree. K was found much higher than other elements in the mistletoe. On the other hand, Al, As, Ca, Cd, Cr, Cu, Fe, Mo, Ni, Sr, Pb, and Ti contents were determined to be more in almond tree than mistletoe.

Metal concentrations in traditional and herbal teas and their potential risks to human health

Food and beverage consumption is an important route for human exposure to metals. Traditional tea (Camellia sinensis) is a widely-consumed beverage, which may contain toxic metals. This study determined total and infusion concentrations of 5 metals including Al, As, Cd, Cr, and Pb in 47 traditional and herbal teas from 13 countries and assessed their potential risks to human health. The data showed that herbal teas exhibited higher As (0.26mgkg^-1), Cd (0.19mgkg^-1) and Pb (2.32mgkg^-1) than traditional teas. Black tea from India had high Cr at 31mgkg^-1 while white tea from China had low Cr at 0.39mgkg^-1. Arsenic, Cd and Pb did not exceed the WHO limit for medicinal plants excluding one herbal tea with 1.1mgkg^-1 As and 26.4mgkg^-1 Pb. However, Cr in 47% herbal teas and 73% traditional teas exceeded the Canada limit of 2mgkg^-1. Metal concentrations in tea infusions were below the MCL for drinking water except for Al. Total Al and its infusion was lower in herbal teas (47-1745mgkg^-1 and 0.09-3.95mgL^-1) than traditional teas (50.3-2517mgkg^-1 and 0.02-7.51mgL^-1), with 0.9-22% and 4-49% of the Al being soluble in infusion. The Al concentrations in infusion in all black tea and 83, 75 and 25% of the green, oolong and herbal teas exceeded the secondary MCL for drinking water at 0.2mgL^-1. However, the weekly intake of Al from drinking tea (0.001-0.39 and 0.003-0.56mgkg^-1 for children and adults) was lower than the provisional tolerable weekly intake for Al at 1.0mgkg^-1. Our data showed that it is important to consider metal intake from tea consumptions, especially for Cr and Al in heavy tea drinkers.

Sources, distribution, bioavailability, toxicity, and risk assessment of heavy metal(loid)s in complementary medicines

The last few decades have seen the rise of alternative medical approaches including the use of herbal supplements, natural products, and traditional medicines, which are collectively known as 'Complementary medicines'. However, there are increasing concerns on the safety and health benefits of these medicines. One of the main hazards with the use of complementary medicines is the presence of heavy metal(loid)s such as arsenic (As), cadmium (Cd), lead (Pb), and mercury (Hg). This review deals with the characteristics of complementary medicines in terms of heavy metal(loid)s sources, distribution, bioavailability, toxicity, and human risk assessment. The heavy metal(loid)s in these medicines are derived from uptake by medicinal plants, cross-contamination during processing, and therapeutic input of metal(loid)s. This paper discusses the distribution of heavy metal(loid)s in these medicines, in terms of their nature, concentration, and speciation. The importance of determining bioavailability towards human health risk assessment was emphasized by the need to estimate daily intake of heavy metal(loid)s in complementary medicines. The review ends with selected case studies of heavy metal(loid) toxicity from complementary medicines with specific reference to As, Cd, Pb, and Hg. The future research opportunities mentioned in the conclusion of review will help researchers to explore new avenues, methodologies, and approaches to the issue of heavy metal(loid)s in complementary medicines, thereby generating new regulations and proposing fresh approach towards safe use of these medicines.

Is there a risk of trace element contamination in herbal preparations? A test study on the lichen Cetraria islandica

Lichens are a source of unique secondary metabolites, which have been proved to have many biological properties with possible pharmaceutical roles, including e.g. antioxidant, antimicrobial, antifungal or anti-inflammatory activities and to be worth of consideration for potential human use. However, lichens lack cuticolar tissues and are exposed to several atmospheric contaminants, including trace elements. This work aims at exploring the potential toxicity of herbal preparations derived by the lichen Cetraria islandica due to trace element contamination, testing whether different concentrations may be observed, depending on the origin of the raw material. Fourteen samples of C. islandica, as cut dried thalli occurring on the European market, have been bought from different providers. For each sample, the concentrations of As, Cd, Co, Cu, Fe, Mn, Ni, P, Pb, V and Zn were measured on comminuted herbal substance and on the corresponding decoction, using atomic emission spectrometry (ICP-OES). The elemental concentrations in decoctions were significantly lower than those measured in raw materials, dropping down to levels of negligible health concern. Differences observed in raw materials were not observed anymore in the corresponding decoctions. Also, the elemental transfer rate from dried lichen to decoction was extremely element-specific, ranging from 2% for Cu to 95% for Zn.

Herbal products containing Hibiscus sabdariffa L., Crataegus spp., and Panax spp.: Labeling and safety concerns

Herbs have been used from ancient times for infusion preparation based on their potential health effects. In particular, the consumption of Hibiscus sabdariffa L., Crataegus spp. and Panax spp. has been largely associated to cardiovascular benefits. In this work, the label information of 52 herbal products for infusion preparation containing the referred herbs was analyzed and discussed, taking into consideration the European Union regulation for herbal products, which intends to protect public health and harmonize the legal framework in Member States. Details about the cardiovascular-related statements and warning notifications about consumption were considered. Also, regulatory issues and possible herb-drug interactions were explored and discussed. A total of 14 of the 52 herbal products selected presented health claims/statements on the label. Hibiscus was present in the majority of the products and, in some cases, it was mentioned only in the ingredients list and not on the product front-of-pack. Despite the promising outcomes of these plants to modulate cardiovascular risk markers, consumers with some sort of cardiovascular dysfunction and/or under medication treatments should be aware to carefully analyze the labels and consult additional information related to these herbal products. Manufacturers have also a huge responsibility to inform consumers by presenting awareness statements. Lastly, health professionals must advise and alert their patients about possible interactions that could occur between the concomitant consumption of drugs and herbs. Overall, there is still a real need of additional studies and clinical trials to better understand herbs effects and establish a science-based guidance to assess their safety.

Ethnobotanical survey of herbal tea plants from the traditional markets in Chaoshan, China

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Herbal tea, which refers to "cooling tea", "cool beverage", or "liáng chá" in China, includes a range of drinks with heat-clearing and detoxification qualities. Herbal tea plants are great contributive to the health and prosperity of Chaoshan people. The aim of the study was to document herbal tea plant species used and commercialized as "liáng chá" in Chaoshan area, to facilitate the use and development of herbal tea enterprises, and to promote the further development of national herbal tea.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Information and data were obtained from all 83 stall holders in 12 traditional markets, semi-structured informant interviews were carried out individually with the stall holders, 10 questions were asked.

RESULTS

In this study, 186 species of herbal tea plants belonging to 65 families and 156 genera were indicated by 83 stall holders, with Asteraceae being the most prevalent family with 22 species. Herbs are main sources of herbal tea plants in Chaoshan area, with whole plants (97 species) being the most used parts. Herbal drinks are mostly consumed for heat-clearing and detoxification, and a large number of plant species were reported to treat coughs, colds, dysentery, dampness and sore throats. The most cited species were Hedyotis corymbosa (L.) Lam. (47 times mentioned), Hedyotis diffusa Willd. (46), Plantago asiatica L. (43), Houttuynia cordata Thunb (42), Centella asiatica (L.) Urban (36), Desmodium styracifolium (Osbeck) Merr. (35) and Morus alba L. (31), and 5 protected species were recorded in the list of the nationally protected species of China: Dendrobium officinale Kimura et Migo, Dendrobium nobile Lindl., Anoectochilus formosanus Hayata, Bulbophyllum odoratissimum (J. E. Smith) Lindl. and Pholidota chinensis Lindl. The selling price of most fresh herbal tea plants in the market varied from￥10-16/kg, with the profit margin of sales ranging from 12.5% to 20%. The consumption of herbal tea for one family costs about ￥3-5/day.

CONCLUSION

Chaoshan herbal teas, prepared by diverse plant species, are regarded as a long tradition inseparable part in daily life of local people. Although they can effectively prevent and treat different kinds of diseases, they are not suitable for everyone (e.g. the elderly, children, and pregnant or breastfeeding women), even in healthy people, improper use of herbal tea can lead to physical discomfort. Furthermore, in order to appropriately understand the function, efficacy, and safety of herbal tea plants, additional research of traditional practices and phytochemistry, nutrient, physiological and toxicity properties should be analyzed.

A Green Sequential Injection Spectrophotometric Approach Using Natural Reagent Extracts from Heartwood of Ceasalpinia sappan Linn. for Determination of Aluminium

A cost-effective and environmentally friendly approach using a simple sequential injection spectrophotometric system with a non-synthetic reagent from plant extracts was proposed for a green analytical-chemistry methodology. The crude aqueous extracts from heartwood of Ceasalpinia sappan Linn. in acetate buffer pH 5.5 were utilized as an alternative natural reagent for the quantification of aluminium. The extracts contained homoisoflavonoid compounds, brazilin, and brazilein, which reacted with Al(3+) to form reddish complexes with the maximum absorption wavelength at 530 nm. The optimum conditions for the sequential injection parameters, such as sequential profile, sample and reagent volumes, and the pH effect, were investigated. Under the optimum conditions, a linear calibration graph in the range of 0.075 - 1.0 mg L(-1) Al(3+) was obtained with limits of detection and quantification of 0.021 and 0.072 mg L(-1) Al(3+), respectively. Relative standard deviations of 3.2 and 2.4% for 0.1 and 0.25 mg L(-1) Al(3+) (n = 11), respectively, and sampling rate of 128 injections h(-1) were achieved. The developed system was successfully applied to pharmaceutical preparations, water, and beverage samples. The results agreed well with those obtained from the ICP-AES method. Good recoveries between 87 and 104% were obtained.

In Vitro Digestibility of Aluminum from Hibiscus sabdariffa Hot Watery Infusion and Its Concentration in Urine of Healthy Individuals

Increased ingestion of aluminum (Al) can lead to its accumulation in the human body, especially in people with kidney problems. Al is also associated with several nervous diseases and its negative influence on embryo development during pregnancy has been proven in animal models. Hibiscus sabdariffa L. petals are widely used alone or in fruit tea formulas, which are recommended for drinking during pregnancy instead of tea. Its petals can contain similar and even higher amounts of Al as tea, which is a known Al accumulator. Our research investigated whether the regular intake of H. sabdariffa infusion leads to increased burden of Al. Sixteen days of ingestion of H. sabdariffa infusion (c _Al = 0.5 mg.L^-1) led to increased but unbalanced levels (15-86 μg L^-1) of Al in urine compared to a period when the infusion was not ingested. The highest amounts of Al excreted were observed every third day during the ingestion. Mild health problems, such as nausea and dizziness (which could be related to plant properties) were reported by more sensitive volunteers.Our results suggest that the tea infusion from H. sabdariffa petals increases body burden of Al and, therefore, sensitive individuals as pregnant women and people with kidney problems should be cautious with excessive consumption of hibiscus infusion or fruit teas containing this plant. However, further study including more individuals is needed to fully confirm our preliminary results.

Transition rates of selected metals determined in various types of teas (Camellia sinensis L. Kuntze) and herbal/fruit infusions

Teas and raw materials used as ingredients of herbal and fruit infusions (HFI) were analysed by means of ICP-MS for their content of aluminium, arsenic, cadmium, copper, lead and mercury in the dry product and in the infusion. Samples of tea (Camellia sinensis L. Kuntze) were selected to include different origins, types (black, green), leaf grades (whole leaf, broken, fannings, dust) and manufacturing techniques (orthodox, "crush, tear, curl"). The selected HFI raw materials (chamomile, elderberries, fennel, hibiscus, mate, peppermint, rooibos and rose hip) cover the most important matrices (flower, fruit, seed, herb, leaf) and reflect the economic significance of these HFI materials in trade. Infusions were prepared under standardised conditions representing typical household brewing. Transition rates for the investigated metals vary significantly but are mostly well below 100%. We propose default transition rates for metals to avoid overestimation of exposure levels from tea/HFI consumption.

The determination of elements in herbal teas and medicinal plant formulations and their tisanes

Elemental analysis of herbal teas and their tisanes is aimed at assessing their quality and safety in reference to specific food safety regulations and evaluating their nutritional value. This survey is dedicated to atomic spectroscopy and mass spectrometry element detection methods and sample preparation procedures used in elemental analysis of herbal teas and medicinal plant formulations. Referring to original works from the last 15 years, particular attention has been paid to tisane preparation, sample matrix decomposition, calibration and quality assurance of results in elemental analysis of herbal teas by different atomic and mass spectrometry methods. In addition, possible sources of elements in herbal teas and medicinal plant formulations have been discussed.

Phenolic Profiles, Phytchemicals and Mineral Content of Decoction and Infusion of Opuntia ficus-indica Flowers

Opuntia flowers are a natural source of biologically active compounds and they have been used as medicinal plant for a long time. Despite the various uses reported for the decoction and infusion of these flowers, their characterization has been discarded. In this study, the decoction and infusion prepared from Opuntia ficus-indica were analyzed with respect to their content in minerals and phytochemicals in order to evaluate its nutritional characteristics. The obtained data proved that these preparations are a rich source of minerals mainly K and Ca. Moreover, the phytochemical analysis revealed that they have important polyphenols, flavonoids and tannins contents with the infusion that presented the highest polyphenol levels. LC-MS analyses of decoction and infusion allowed the characterization of 20 phenolic compounds. It is mainly identified by the presence of flavonols glycosides.

Aluminium uptake and translocation in Al hyperaccumulator Rumex obtusifolius is affected by low-molecular-weight organic acids content and soil pH

BACKGROUND AND AIMS

High Al resistance of Rumex obtusifolius together with its ability to accumulate Al has never been studied in weakly acidic conditions (pH > 5.8) and is not sufficiently described in real soil conditions. The potential elucidation of the role of organic acids in plant can explain the Al tolerance mechanism.

METHODS

We established a pot experiment with R. obtusifolius planted in slightly acidic and alkaline soils. For the manipulation of Al availability, both soils were untreated and treated by lime and superphosphate. We determined mobile Al concentrations in soils and concentrations of Al and organic acids in organs.

RESULTS

Al availability correlated positively to the extraction of organic acids (citric acid < oxalic acid) in soils. Monovalent Al cations were the most abundant mobile Al forms with positive charge in soils. Liming and superphosphate application were ambiguous measures for changing Al mobility in soils. Elevated transport of total Al from belowground organs into leaves was recorded in both lime-treated soils and in superphosphate-treated alkaline soil as a result of sufficient amount of Ca available from soil solution as well as from superphosphate that can probably modify distribution of total Al in R. obtusifolius as a representative of "oxalate plants." The highest concentrations of Al and organic acids were recorded in the leaves, followed by the stem and belowground organ infusions.

CONCLUSIONS

In alkaline soil, R. obtusifolius is an Al-hyperaccumulator with the highest concentrations of oxalate in leaves, of malate in stems, and of citrate in belowground organs. These organic acids form strong complexes with Al that can play a key role in internal Al tolerance but the used methods did not allow us to distinguish the proportion of total Al-organic complexes to the free organic acids.

Elemental characterisation of the medical plant Alchemilla velebitica

Alchemilla, commonly called "lady's mantle", is a genus of herbaceous perennial plants belonging to the family Rosaceae. The species Alchemilla velebitica is found only in Southern Europe, like in the Croatian National Park Northern Velebit. Its benefits, such as a astringent and emmenagogue activity as well as wound healing are correlated to the organic compounds found in the plant, but also certain trace elements are known to reduce skin lesions, such as zinc, selenium, copper, manganese, silicon and lithium. Thus the objective of the present study was the elemental characterization of leaves, blossoms and roots of A. velebitica. After acidic microwave assisted digestion the concentrations of selected essential and trace elements were determined by inductively coupled plasma--atomic emission spectrometry and inductively coupled plasma--mass spectrometry. Other minor elements, such as Al, B, Cu, Fe, Mn, Sr and Zn are also found in leaves, blossoms and roots with contents in μg/kg range. The preparation of decoctions and the extraction yields of the elements of interest are calculated.

Comparison of the level of boron concentrations in black teas with fruit teas available on the Polish market

The determination of boron by inductively coupled plasma-atomic emission spectrometry has been carried in water-soluble and acid soluble (total content) fractions of 36 samples of traditional black tea and fruit brew. The estimation of the impact of the type of tea on the concentration of boron in water-soluble and acid extracts and potential human health risk from the daily intake of boron was carried out in this study. The levels of boron differed significantly in black and fruit tea types. The mean total content of boron ranged from 8.31 to 18.40 mg/kg in black teas, from 12.85 to 15.13 mg/kg in black tea with fruit flavor, and from 12.09 to 22.77 mg/kg in fruit brews. The degree of extraction of boron in black tea ranged from 8% to 27% and for fruit tea from 17% to 69%. In addition, the values below 25% were of black teas with fruit flavors. The daily intake of B from tea infusions (three cups/day) is still within the average daily intake except for some of the fruit brews which exceed acceptable regulations of the daily intake of total boron by humans. Hence, it may not produce any health risks for human consumption, if other sources of metal contaminated food are not taken at the same time.