Macro- and microelement composition of Cichorium intybus L. from Uzbekistan

The present study investigates the distribution of macro- and microelements in Cichorium intybus L. collected from different ecological sites within the Samarkand region of Uzbekistan. Elemental analysis was performed separately for aboveground organs (leaves and stems) and underground parts (roots) following standardised sample preparation protocols. Quantitative determination of elemental composition was carried out using X-ray fluorescence spectroscopy (XRF, Rigaku, Japan). The analysis confirmed the accumulation of essential macroelements, including calcium, potassium, magnesium and sodium, along with a range of trace elements such as iron, zinc, copper, manganese, cobalt, nickel, chromium, lead and molybdenum. Distinct organ-specific patterns were observed: root tissues were characterised by elevated levels of calcium and potassium, while leaf samples showed comparatively higher concentrations of iron, zinc and manganese, which are closely associated with metabolic and photosynthetic activity. Variations in elemental content were also influenced by local environmental conditions. These results highlight the mineral richness of C. intybus and support its potential relevance for further phytochemical, nutritional and pharmacological investigations.