Recent applications of graphite furnace atomic absorption spectrometry for the analysis of medicinal plants and plant-based remedies

Abstract

Medicinal plants play an important role as therapeutics. Graphite furnace atomic absorption spectrometry (GFAAS) is used to monitor their quality for essential element content and potential contamination with heavy metals. This review summarizes recent applications of GFAAS for the analysis of medicinal plants and some pharmaceutical preparations made thereof. Attention is paid to the analytical conditions, in particular the applied pyrolysis and atomization temperatures as well as the use of modifiers. A brief focus on the respective properties of the medicinal plants presented demonstrates that GFAAS is a versatile technique for pharmaceutical analysis.