This study evaluates the heavy metal and nutritional element content in the reproductive organs of medicinal plants (Helianthus annuus, Matricaria chamomilla, Tilia argentea, Sambucus nigra, Calendula officinalis, Crataegus monogyna, Juniperus communis, Malus sylvestris, and Rosa canina) collected from the "Agroproduct" collection point in Kosovo. The main purpose of this study is to make an elemental analysis of above-mentioned plant species belonging to the Kosovo region and to clearly reveal whether these plants are consumable or safe for human health. Therefore, the parameters specified in the literature were evaluated to determine this, including metal and mineral concentration, correlation studies, and risk assessments using RDA (Recommended Daily Allowance), EDI (Estimated Daily Intake), THQ (Target Hazard Quotient), and HI (Hazard Index). Results showed that C. monogyna had the highest calcium (4863.32 mg/kg) and lead (3.53 mg/kg) levels, M. chamomilla had the highest potassium (15747.64 mg/kg), S. nigra fruits had the highest magnesium (2951.42 mg/kg), and C. officinalis had the highest sodium (1751.34 mg/kg), copper (12.51 mg/kg), and zinc (34.48 mg/kg). T. argentea had elevated manganese (127.30 mg/kg), and H. annuus had the highest iron (134.68 mg/kg) and nickel (9.37 mg/kg). R. canina, J. communis, and M. sylvestris did not exhibit the highest values for any evaluated elements. Comparisons with WHO/FAO allowable limits revealed that S. nigra fruits, T. argentea, H. annuus, C. monogyna, and M. chamomilla had concentrations of chromium, lead, and manganese exceeding permissible levels. Although certain elements exceeded WHO/FAO limits, risk assessment metrics (THQ, HI) suggest that the exposure levels remain within acceptable safety margins. This study addressing a critical gap in regional phytochemical data and evaluating their safety for human consumption through nutritional profiling and toxicological risk assessment.
Milaimi et al. (Tue,) studied this question.