Application of Atomic Absorption Spectroscopy in the Determination of the Elemental Composition of Chanca piedra (Stone Breaker Leaf) Growing in Iwo, South West Nigeria

Abstract

The elemental composition of Chanca piedra (stone breaker leaf) alternatively called Phyllantus amarus (Euphorbiaceae) was determined using atomic absorption spectroscopy, AAS. Chanca piedra a tropical medicinal plant, is reportedly useful in blocking kidney stone formation and has anti-hepatitis B activity. The acid digested samples were subjected to AAS analysis. The atomic absorption spectrophotometer (PG-990) is a fully automated instrument used in the flame configuration option, controlled by a personal computer, with Microsoft windows as the operating system. Results showed that manganese (Mn) (228.9 ± 3.3 mg/kg), zinc (Zn) (41.7 ± 0.9 mg/kg), iron (Fe) (459.3 ± 3.3 mg/kg), calcium (Ca) (521.9 ± 1.8 mg/kg) and magnesium (Mg) (397.4 ± 1.3 mg/kg) were present in the plant. These high concentrations of calcium, iron and magnesium in this plant should be useful for electrolyte balance, enhancement of growth, bone and teeth formation, and activation of enzyme reactions. It should also have implications for drug development in this part of the world for the treatment of some kidney and other related medical problems. The result equally shows the suitability of Chanca piedra leaves for consumption and confirms its folkloric applications in traditional medications.