PJB-2024-27
DIVERSITY AND MINERAL PROFILE OF PLANTS USED FOR ANEMIA AMONG THE COMMUNITIES INHABITED ALONG THE RIPARIAN ZONE OF RIVER JHELUM IN DISTRICT SARGODHA (PUNJAB)
Muhammad Saeed
Abstract
This study investigates the diversity, frequency, abundance and mineral composition of medicinal plants employed for the treatment of anemia in the communities residing along the riparian zone of the Jhelum River, within the Sargodha District of Punjab. Samples of soil, and plants were collected from multiple locations along the Jhelum River for analysis using atomic absorption spectrophotometer. Soil samples were obtained at various depths, ranging from 0-15 cm, 15-30 cm, and 30-60 cm, and subjected to macro- and micronutrient analysis. The soil types in proximity to the Jhelum River spanned from silty clays to loamy sand, and notable associations between soil pH and elements such as Zn, Cu, Fe, and Mn were observed, with a specific focus on iron availability. Notably, the iron content varied among different plant species, including Citrullus colocynthis, Mentha longifolia, Chenopodium album, Spinacia oleracea, Azadirachta indica and Acacia nilotica in abundance. The goal is to develop a natural iron supplement derived from these plants, devoid of the adverse effects associated with commercial iron supplements, while also offering additional nutritional benefits.
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