Analytical chemistry of some trace elements in Tamarix gallica L. using instrumental neutron activation analysis (INAA)

Salt cedar (Tamarix gallica L.) is an important xero-halophytic tree used for its medicinal properties to treat cancer, gastrointestinal syndromes, diabetes and infections. In the present investigation, instrumental neutron activation analysis (INAA) was carried out to evaluate some major and trace elements (As, Ba, Br, Ca, Ce, Co, Cr, Cs, Eu, Fe, K, La, Na, Rb, Sb, Sc, Sm, Tb, Th, and Zn) in this species. The quality of the results was assessed by the analysis of CRM-GSV4 tea leaves; a good agreement was achieved between the measured and recommended data. The results show that T. gallica contained high levels of Ca, K, Na and Fe, while elements toxic to humans (As, Br, and Sb) were below the tolerable limits reported in the World Health Organization database (WHO/FAO). Macro- and microelements essential to humans were present in T. gallica leaves with significant levels in the following order: Ca > Na > K > Fe > Zn > Cr > Co. T. gallica could provide a new promising therapeutic source for pharmacological purposes.