Qualitative Phytochemical Screening And Metal Analysis Of Some Selected Medicinal Plants

Abstract

Medicinal plants have been integral to traditional medicine system for centuries due to their therapeutic properties. By employing standard phytochemical screening methods and Atomic absorption spectroscopy, the selected medicinal plants like Entada rheedei, Tridax procumbens and Balanited aegyptiaca were screened for different phytochemicals and metals. By these analyses, we detected key constituents like flavonoids, saponins, terpenoids, phenols, glycosides, some metals and essential minerals. However, contamination of these plants with metals such as Pb and Cd can lead to the significant health risks to consumers such as indigestion, neurological disorders & carcinogenesis. This research underscore the significance of qualitative phytochemical screening and metal analysis in medicinal plants and its relevance in ensuring the safety & efficacy of herbal remedies. The findings generally indicates differences in the phytochemical and mineral level in plant. Thus, as a result this study has demonstrated the validation of these medicinal plants with respect to the presence of phytochemical and accumulation of heavy metals or minerals. Further research directions are proposed to enhance the formulation of potential herbal drugs and establish comprehensive regulatory frameworks for herbal products.