Determination of Heavy Metals in Moringa oleifera Capsules by ICP-MS

摘要

Moringa oleifera Lam. leaf capsules collected from markets in Nakhon Pathom, Thailand were determined for 11 heavy metals (Al, As, Cd, Cr, Cu, Fe, Hg, Mn, Ni, Pb, and Zn) by inductively coupled plasma-mass spectrometry (ICP-MS) using acid digestion for sample preparation. The concentrations of Al, As, Cr, Cu and Hg in all samples of M. oleifera capsules were found within permissible limits and normal ranges. In contrast, Fe, and Zn concentrations in all samples were higher than permissible limits. Furthermore, the concentrations of Cd, Mn, Ni, and Pb in some samples were higher than permissible limits and normal ranges. The presence of elevated levels of Cd, Fe, Mn, Ni, Pb, and Zn in M. oleifera capsules is a serious matter of concern. Therefore, it is important that doctors and consumers are aware of this matter especially during the routine taking of M. oleifera capsules.