Assessment of heavy metal levels in Coriandrum sativum cultivated in Bilaspur's Dhuripara region: A comprehensive study

Abstract

Irrigation with sewage water in agriculture may result in the uptake and accumulation of toxic heavy metals in edible crops, posing a significant risk to humans. Certain vegetables exhibit higher accumulation rates than others, and it is essential to investigate the extent to which these heavy metals accumulate in soil and the potential risks they pose. This study conducted at an irrigation site in Bilaspur, describes the heavy metal levels in sewage water, soil, and their transportation in various parts of Coriandrum sativum (coriander). The study revealed that the heavy metal content in the sewage water, soil and coriander was below the critical limits. The study measured the concentrations of eight different metal ions in various plant parts of Coriandrum sativum, cultivated using sewage water. It had relatively high concentrations of lead (Pb) and zinc (Zn) among other metals, however the concentration was below toxic limits. The bioaccumulation factor (BAF) and translocation factor (TF) of these metals indicated minimal accumulation within the plant tissues. Pb showed the highest TF, but its concentration remained within safe limits in the edible portions.