An analytical approach for determining macro- and micro- elements in two different growing periods of Artemisia abrotanum L

This study presents a comprehensive analytical assessment of macro- and micro-element content in Artemisia abrotanum L. harvested during two distinct growth periods—pre-blooming and blooming. Using a validated ICP-MS method, both microwave digestion and infusion extraction techniques were applied to evaluate the elemental composition of the plant. The concentrations of essential, beneficial, and potentially toxic elements—including Na, K, Mg, Ca, Fe, P, S, Al, V, Cr, Mn, Co, Ni, Cu, Zn, As, Se, Sr, Mo, Cd, Ba, Tl, Pb, and U—were determined and compared across harvest times and extraction methods. Chemometric analyses, including principal component and hierarchical cluster analysis, were employed to classify the results and elucidate patterns among the elements and sample types. The findings revealed that the elemental distribution in Artemisia abrotanum L. varies significantly with harvest period and preparation method. Notably, Na, Mn, Ni, Co, As, Se, Sr, and Ba were more abundant during the blooming period, while K, Mg, Ca, Zn, Mo, Cd, and Pb were higher in the pre-blooming period. Differences in P, Fe, Al, V, Cr, and Tl concentrations were primarily attributed to the extraction technique. The study further evaluated the measured element concentrations against updated dietary and toxicological reference values, providing a clearer perspective on the potential health implications of consuming Artemisia abrotanum L. infusions. These results underscore the importance of both harvest timing and preparation method in determining the nutritional and safety profile of medicinal plants.

Graphical abstract