Major and trace elements contents in crude drug and infusions of two South American species of Achyrocline (Asteraceae) named "Marcelas"

Abstract

Multielement analysis of crude drug and infusions from Achyrocline satureioides and A. tomentosa (Asteraceae), "marcelas", were carried out by ICP-OES, to know both mineral composition and safety. These plants are used as herbal remedies and extracts for bitter beverages in southern South America. Twenty seven major and trace elements were determined. Crude drugs contained valuable amounts of K, Ca, Mg, and P and essential trace elements (Fe, Mn, Zn, and Cu). Variability in the passage of minerals towards infusions was observed, too, and concentrations of K, Ca, P, and Mg were higher than those of Na, Mn, Zn, Cu, Al, Fe, Ni, Li, Hg and Mo, while other minerals were not detected. The infusions would be safe for human consumption because remain within the limits of the recommended daily intake or tolerable upper intake, and contribute to the daily intake in the case of some essential minerals.