Antioxidant activity, amino acid composition and trace element levels of Verbascum lasianthum Boiss. ex Bentham from Erzincan, Türkiye

The aim of this study is to investigate trace elements and amino acids in the root and stem of Verbascum lasianthum Boiss. ex Bentham (VL) from Erzincan and to understand the role of these compounds in adaptation to environmental stress conditions. In the study, ICP-MS and LC-MS/MS methods are used for analyses. In addition, antioxidant activities of methanol:water extracts (70:30, v:v) of these parts were investigated. The results showed that VL in Erzincan accumulates elements such as sodium and silicium to adapt to arid and stressful environmental conditions and supports these processes by synthesizing amino acids such as L-proline, L-asparagine and L-glutamine. The high amount of iron indicates that VL can be a potential iron source in the treatment of anemia. However, aluminum accumulation in plants is extremely risky due to its possible neurotoxic effect in humans and plant toxicity. Although these amino acids and trace elements contribute to the antioxidant potential of the plant, VL showed a low antioxidant activity when compared to VL species in other regions. In conclusion, this study emphasizes the importance of comprehensively analyzing phytochemical profiles such as trace elements, amino acids and phenolic compounds to evaluate the efficacy and safety of medicinal plants.