METALS AND METALLOIDS CONTENT OF THREE PLANTAGO SPECIES FROM SOUTHERN URAL

The aim of this study was to perform an analysis of the leaves trace elements content of three Plantago species (P. maxima Juss. ex Jacq., P. major L., and P. lanceolata L). The trace elements concentration was estimated by inductively coupled mass spectrometry. The obtained data showed that the leaves of P. lanceolata were characterized by the greatest levels of Co, Cr, and Se. At the same time, the highest concentrations of Si and Zn were found in the P. maxima leaves. Toxic trace elements content was different among the studied Plantago species. In particular, P. lanceolata leaves contained significantly higher Al, As, Li, Ni, Pb, and Sr levels whereas the B and Cd concentration was increased in the leaves of P. major. Interesting, that the lowest Hg level in P. major was observed whereas As, B, Cd, Ni, Li, and Sr content exceeded significantly the respective values in the other two species. The levels of the most essential trace elements were significantly higher in P. major and P. lanceolata leaves while the less amount of toxic elements was observed in P. maxima leaves. Consequently, the obtained data may be used in practical medicine.