POTENTIAL HEALTH RISK ASSESSMENT ASSOCIATED WITH HEAVY METAL ACCUMULATION IN NATIVE URTICA DIOICA

Metals concentrations of Cr, Ni, Co, Cu, Zn, Cd, and Pb in nettle (Urtica dioica) and soil samples, collected in April 2019 from several villages around Targoviste City, were determined. The samples were collected in the springtime (April 2019) when it is considered that the plants have reached the maturity and because inhabitants pick nettles for their purposes or sell them in markets to other consumers as well. This study revealed that concentrations of Cr, Ni, Co, Cu, Zn, Cd, and Pb in soil samples collected in April 2019 were higher than the alert level established by Romanian legislation. In the same time, Cd and Pb contents were higher than maximum admitted levels (established by Romanian Order no. 975/1998) and the daily intake values for Cr, Co, Cu, Cd, and Pb were higher than reference doses (recommended by USEPA) in all analyzed samples. The obtained results can extend understanding of the human risks of heavy metals in soil and fresh leaves and stem of nettle regarding the consumption and medical purposes. Also, this study will provide insights into pollution levels, concerning human health risk.