Distribution Characteristics and Health Risk Assessment of Heavy Metals in the Epimedium -Soil System of Karst Areas
Abstract
This study investigated the distribution and health risks of heavy metals (As, Cd, Cr, Cu, Ni, Pb, Zn) in the Epimedium-soil system within a typical karst area of Guizhou, China. Soil analysis revealed the highest contamination level for As (849.14 mg·kg−1) and the lowest for Cd (0.34 mg·kg−1). In Epimedium tissues, Cr, Ni, Cu, As, and Pb were predominantly enriched in leaves (bioaccumulation order: leaves > roots > stems), while Zn and Cd were primarily accumulated in roots (roots > leaves > stems). The health risk assessment indicated that non-carcinogenic risk indices for both soil and Epimedium consumption were below the safety threshold (HI
Fields of Study & Subjects
Heavy metals in environment
Heavy Metals in Plants
Environmental Toxicology and Ecotoxicology
Publication details
- Journal / source
- Soil and Sediment Contamination An International Journal
- Volume
- 35
- Issue
- 7
- Pages
- 1704–1719
- Publication date
- 16 January 2026
- Language
- EN