Decoction of the roots of Tragia furialis boje and the leaves of Ravenala madagascariensis, prepared using the method of Atomic Absorption Analysis

An herbal tea is a preparation made from a plant or mixture of plants, most often dried, by infusion, decoction, or maceration in water. The overall objective of this study is to determine the mineral content of the leaves and stems of Ravenala madagascariensis and the root of Tragia furialis Bojer, used in decoctions during pregnancy in northern Madagascar. The method used was Atomic Absorption Spectrometry. Samples were collected in the DIANA region, specifically in the Ambanja district. The samples used in the decoction analysis by Atomic Absorption Spectrometry also contained toxic elements such as lead ; undesirable elements such as aluminum, copper, iron, cobalt, and manganese; and the nutrient calcium. The concentration of elements found in the decoction of these plants was lower than the amounts ingested by pregnant women according to the standards set by the relevant authorities.