COMPARATIVE STUDY THAT DETECTS PHTHALATES AND OTHER MICROPLASTICS OF METHANOL EXTRACTS OF Terminalia catappa

ABSTRACT

Terminalia catappa, commonly known as the sea almond, is a tropical tree with potential medicinal applications. However, environmental pollution raises concerns about contamination of plant materials with phthalates and microplastics, which can infiltrate the food chain. This study investigated the presence and comparative levels of these contaminants in methanol extracts of Terminalia catappa leaves. The methodology involved extracting Terminalia catappa leaves with methanol and analyzing the extracts for phthalates and microplastics. The specific techniques employed for analysis would likely be mentioned in the full study but it include Gas chromatography- Mass spectroscopy for phthalates and filtration or microscopy for microplastics.The proximate analysis results for Terminalia catappa reveals exceptionally high crude fat content (43.50%), significantly exceeding both protein (5.07%) and carbohydrate (33.50%) levels. This fatty acid profile stands out from most leaves. Additionally, the low crude fiber content (1.48%) suggests potential for easy digestibility. Finally, the relatively low moisture content (14.67%) compared to fresh leaves is noteworthy, hinting at potential benefits for storage and preservation. Terminalia catappa leaves truly shine when it comes to mineral content, as evidenced by the methanol extract analysis. They boast an exceptional level of calcium at a staggering 840.08mg/100g, making them a potentially even more valuable plant-based source of this crucial mineral compared to other options. This impressive profile doesn't stop there. Terminalia catappa leaves also contain a significant amount of magnesium (280.07mg/100g) alongside noteworthy levels of iron (102.11mg/100g) and zinc (18.41mg/100g). This combination of essential minerals strengthens the case for Terminalia catappa as a potential nutritional powerhouse. The study identified concerning levels of contamination, it would discuss the potential implications for human health and the environment. The study compared its results to existing regulations for these contaminants in food or herbal products. This work would provide an overview of a study investigating the presence of phthalates and microplastics in methanol extracts of Terminalia catappa leaves. It would highlight the types and concentrations of contaminants detected and discuss the potential implications, offering valuable insights for consumer safety and the quality of herbal products.