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Authors:
Amah A.K, *Ogbodo E.C,Mbanaso E.L, Akunneh-wariso C.C, Ejiofor D.C, Njoku C.M4, Okhiai O, Iheukwumere C.B, Timothy C.O, Amaechi I.P., Nigeria
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Abstract:
This study was designed to investigate the heavy metal contents of Vernonia amygdalina (bitter leaf) collected from Eke Okigwe Market in Imo State, South-Eastern Nigeria. Heavy metals including mercury (Hg), Cadmium (Cd), Manganese (Mn) and Lead (Pb) present in the vegetable were analyzed using Atomic Absorption Spectrophotometer (ASS). The results revealed that Mn (3.495+-0.001) and Cd (0.001+_0.008) mg/100g each present in the vegetable differed significantly compared with WHO allowable limits respectively (P<0.05). However, both Hg and Pb concentrations were not detected in the vegetable sample. Therefore, caution may be needed in the consumption of V. amygdalina in this area so as to avert the resultant deleterious effect of the bioaccumulation of these heavy metals in the human system.
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