DETECTION OF TRACE ELEMENTS IN MEDICINAL FLOWERS OF PAKISTAN

In classical literature of Unani Medicine many plants have been mentioned for different disorders but Materia Medica failed to exhibit significant progress in terms of medicinal plants included in indigenous formulations with reference to diseases. Pakistan is rich in flora due to diverse ecological zones. Only 12% of the flora is being used as medicinal plants. Elements (Arkan) are of prime importance and essential for good health. Iron metabolism is dependent upon copper. Iron deficiency has been associated with decreased immune function. Cu is essential for the production of RNA. Nickel deficiency results in decreased growth. The elemental composition of their parts such as roots, leaves, barks, flowers, seeds and gums must be detected. Flowers have always been natural reservoir of bioflavonoids, elements, vitamins and their reputed effects. Pakistani population is unaware of this natural healing effect of flowers. Fourteen species of flower were analyzed for their composition of seven elements such as Co, Cu, Cr, Fe, Ni, Mn and Pb with the help of Atomic Absorption Spectrophotometer. The results showed the following order of analyzed elements Fe>Mn>Ni>Cu>Pb>Cr and Co. It shall be a great help in understanding their role in particular diseases, knowledge about their inorganic component and their synergistic role in herbal formulations such as decoctions.