K.Ramanji Reddy

The acceptance of remedies in any system of medicine depends upon their efficacy and non-toxicity. There were many reports of rejecting Indian herbal products in various countries because of higher levels of heavy metal content than permitted. Though few are regarded as essential, some heavy metals, especially cadmium, mercury and lead, are potentially hazardous due to their intrinsic or selective toxicity, particularly in environmental contexts. In view of the importance of herbal drug standardization, it was contemplated to carry out the heavy metal determination in papaya fruits(Carica papaya), grapes (Vitisvinifera) and Beta vulgaris (beet root) which were procured from local market. The metals like copper, iron, magnesium nickel, sodium, potassium, lead, chromium, zinc etc were estimated  in the hydroalcoholic extracts by using Atomic Absorption Spectroscopy(AAS). Measurements were made using a hollow Electron Discharge Lamp (EDL).  These extracts were also subjected to general phytochemical screening. Its an alarming bell for humankind if the heavy metal content is more than permitted in common edible commodities. Further study may require understanding the factors influencing the heavy metal content in commonly used fruits and vegetables. Key words: Carica papaya, Vitisvinifera , Beta vulgaris, Atomic Absorption Spectroscopy, hollow Electron Discharge Lamp