Trace, Toxic (PTEs), and Rare Earth Element (REEs) Distributions in Leaves and Flowers of Elaeagnus angustifolia L

Abstract

Elaeagnus angustifolia L., frequently called Russian olive, is a widely used therapeutic and ornamental tree recognized for its ecological and therapeutic virtues. This work presents the first quantification and distribution patterns of major (K, Ca, and Na), trace (Ba, Cr, Co, Cs, Fe, Rb, and Z), PTEs (As, Br, and Sb), and REEs (Ce, Nd, La, Sc, Sm, and Th) in the leaves and flowers of this species using instrumental neutron activation analysis (INAA). Results disclose significant variation in element concentrations between both organs. Potassium, Ca, and Fe were dominant components in both organs. Leaves showed higher contents of Na, Ca, Cr, Cs, and Rb, whereas flowers exhibited higher contents of Co, Nd, Sb, and Th. PCA calculation displayed a clear separation between leaves and flowers based on loading scores, with leaves associating with Ca, Cr, and Rb, and flowers with Co, Nd, and Th. This investigation helps us better understand the chemical profiling and medicinal potential of E. angustifolia for continued ethnobotanical and pharmacological applications.

Keywords: Essential elements; INNA analysis; Medicinal tree; Olivier de Bohême; RDIs; Rare earth elements.