Atomic absorption spectroscopic analysis of some Pakistani herbal medicinal products used in respiratory tract infections.

Heavy metals are one of the major causes of widespread occurrence of respiratory tract infections (RTIs). Unani system of medicines utilizing plant extracts and herbal medicinal products (HMPs) are known to have remedial potential in different RTIs (flue, cough, bronchitis, allergy, asthma, nasal and chest congestion). Being natural in origin chances of metal contamination cannot be ignored in Phytopharmaceuticals, therefore toxic metal contents (Pb, Cd, As, and Hg) were determined in some Pakistani branded HMPs being used in various RTIs through atomic absorption spectrophotometer. Research findings showed detectable levels of metals in all these formulations. Daily metals intakes via these HMPs were calculated as: 0.86-277.44 (Pb), 1.442-10.986 (Cd), 0.16-5.83 (As), and 0.00-0.09 μg/ day (Hg). Prevalence of toxic metals in HMPs especially elevated levels of Pb and Cd, pose severe health risks to the consumers. Statistical interpretation of data using ANOVA followed by LSD (p<0.05), revealed significantly different metal concentrations among HMPs. To identify the metal contaminant of HMPs and highlight their toxic manifestations is the basic aim of this research. The study is not a bias to the beneficial effects of the Phytopharmaceuticals, rather is done to improve their quality and safety parameter according to the international health standards.