The research aimed to investigate the bioaccumulation and health risk associated withabsorption of the selected heavy metals (HMs) i.e., lead (Pb), cadmium (Cd), zinc (Zn), and copper(Cu) in a wild leafy vegetable Nasturtium officinale that grows along the Swat River in swampy areas.The areas were categorized using the ecological risk index (RI), which indicates how heavy metal concentrations in soil and plants change over time. The bioaccumulation factor was greater than that at the 400≤RI sites, indicating a probable health risk of these metals from N. officinale consumption.Furthermore, the health risk index for Cd and Pb was more significant, i.e., greater than one in the majority of the samples, indicating health concerns associated with consuming N. officinale from the study site. However, Zn and Cu levels were lower than the nutritionally needed levels, raising the risk of deficiency in the population. Plants cultivated in Pb and Cd-polluted sites were nutrient deficient in Cu and Zn. Intake of such plants can expose people to HM contamination and nutritional deficiency. The results concluded that the plants accumulated significant HM contents and may have health concerns but are safe for consumption in children and adults.Keywords:heavy metals; leafy vegetables; Nasturtium officinale; mineral nutrient; atomic absorp-tion spectro photometer.
Write only the main points and Gaps to be discussed in the future research studies
Main Points:
1. Bioaccumulation and health risks associated with absorption of heavy metals in Nasturtium officinale grown along the Swat River.
2. Ecological risk index used to categorize areas based on heavy metal concentrations in soil and plants.
3. Bioaccumulation factor indicating potential health risks from consuming N. officinale from certain sites.
4. Health risk index showing significant concerns for Cd and Pb, but lower levels of Zn and Cu.
5. Plants grown in Pb and Cd-polluted sites were deficient in Cu and Zn.
6. Consumption of these plants can expose people to heavy metal contamination and nutritional deficiencies.
7. Results suggest significant heavy metal accumulation in plants but are safe for consumption.
Gaps to be Discussed in Future Research Studies:
1. Further investigation into the long-term health effects of consuming Nasturtium officinale with elevated heavy metal concentrations.
2. Research on the impact of heavy metal contamination on soil health and plant growth.
3. Study on the potential remediation methods for reducing heavy metal accumulation in wild leafy vegetables.
4. Exploration of the effects of heavy metal contamination on other plant species and ecosystems in the Swat River region.
5. Investigation into the nutritional value and safety of consuming Nasturtium officinale from different sites along the river.
6. Research on the potential for bioaccumulation of other heavy metals in wild leafy vegetables and their health impacts.