Journal Article

Comparative Studies of Trace Metals Determination of Three Species in Calyces of Hibiscus sabdariffa Linn

Abstract

Hibiscus sabdarifa Linn belong to the family malvaceae. It is an annual herbaceous sub- shrub with more than 300 species which are distributed in tropical and sub-tropical regions around the world. Most hibiscus species are used as ornamental plants, medicinal values; among them is Hibiscus sabdariffa commonly named as ?Red sorrel‘ and ?Roselle‘. Hibiscus sabdarifa (calyces) have been found to be rich in vitamin, antioxidant and minerals. Therefore, the aim of this work is to determine the trace metals of this plant and to make a comparison. Three samples of calyces were collected, identified as light green, bright red and dark red. They were washed with distilled water and air dried for two weeks and grounded to uniform powder using wood type of mortar and pestle. The trace metal was carried out by using 5.0g of sample in the powdered form was accurately weighed and digested in (5:1) mixture of nitric acid and perchloric acid. After digestion, few drops of concentrated HCl was added. The solution was heated gently and then filtered. The entire filtrate was diluted up to 100cm3 with distilled water. The filtrate solution was used for analysis of elements of interest by AAS using suitable hollow cathode lamps. The mineral presence were essential and non essential heavy metals such as Fe, Zn, Cu and Pb. Iron had the highest contents with ranged between (4.526 – 5.150)mg/kg, Zn (0.044 – 0.048)mg/kg, Cu (0.129 – 0.089)mg/kg and Pb not detected. The levels were within WHO acceptable limits. The light green, bright red and dark red calyces of Hipiscus Sabdariffa L. contain nutrients presence give credence of its medicinal values

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