Comparative study of the levels of essential and toxic elements in medicinal plants using the k -NAA technique

Abstract

This study presents a comparative analysis of essential and toxic elements in Laurus nobilis, Pistacia lentiscus, and Rosmarinus officinalis using the k -Neutron Activation Analysis .The technique provided high sensitivity and accuracy in quantifying elements. Detected elements include major (Ca 0.95%-1.653%, K 0.376 %-1.47%, Mg 0.201%-0.589%, Cl 0.164%-0.242%, Na 0.107%-0.19%), minor (Fe 328-548 mg/kg, Mn 16.9-48.3 mg/kg, Zn 26.847 mg/kg, Cr 1.41-13.8 mg/kg, Co 0.219-0.297 mg/kg, V 0.37-0.62 mg/kg), and non-essential elements (0.0325-393 mg/kg). Quality control was ensured using Zscore and Uscore statistical evaluation parameters, confirming data reliability and interval conformity. Comparisons with literature from Turkey, Morocco, Pakistan, and Algeria highlighted unique elemental compositions and potential health implications. These findings add significant value to medicinal plant research. Key words: elemental analysis, medicinal plants, irradiation, concentration.