Assessment of Some Toxic Metals in Ziziphora (Ziziphora persica) Obtained from Local Market in Lahijan, Northern Iran

Heavy metals cause significant issues when people are exposed to many specific types of them. They can cause many disorders and affect the biochemical pathways in the body. Herbs are known as one of the richest sources of modern patented drugs, particularly in Iranian references. Many metals, particularly heavy metals, are toxic. Various studies have shown a higher level of heavy metals than standards in some countries like Iran, Pakistan, Egypt, and Nigeria. A preliminary study was conducted to determine some toxic elements in powdered Ziziphora (Ziziphora persica) collected from the local market in Lahijan city, northern Iran. Twenty random samples were gathered from various markets, and a flame atomic absorption spectrophotometer (FAAS) was used to detect some featured toxic elements, including copper (Cu), cadmium (Cd), lead (Pb), zinc (Zn), and mercury (Hg). The results showed higher Pb, Cd, and Hg levels than standards. Besides, Cu and Zn were detected to be lower than standards.