Detection of chemical contamination of some herbal slimming available in local markets

Contamination by metals were investigated in this study for herbal slimming which have been widely used in our Iraqi community, Arsenic ( As),  lead (Pb), cadmium (Cd), Nickle (Ni), iron (Fe) and copper (Cu), were determined using flame atomic absorption spectrophotometry. Experiment samples were divided to two groups , first group (G1) included five pocket samples of herbal  were collected from pharmacy and moles in Baghdad  ,second group (G2) included unpacked five samples of herbal   that taken from local markets and spices shops . Results showed that G2 was more contaminated than G1, and there were significant differences (0.05 >p) for contamination by heavy metals between samples of G1 and G2. It has also been conducting an exploratory or a questionnaire study of a sample of people who deal with these herbs and put several questions about the way of taking the herbs, a place to buy these herbs and knowing about the risks of these herbs. Results appeared that 30%  of  people  prefers taking samples from G1 but 70% prefers G2 because they are cheaper and easier to buy , also 40% of people were worry for the risks of these herbs while 60% don’t because of less understanding of their dangers. This study suggest that we must give more interest in dealing with these herbals and take it from specific and trusted places, adding no one should take it without prescription.