Elemental Composition of Some Arid Environment Fodder and Medicinal Plants of Quetta, Balochistan

Abstract

Six important herbs and shrubs of Quetta valley, commonly known for their medicinal and fodder values, were analyzed for their nutritional values. These plants included Conyza canadensis Bory ex DC. (Asteraceae), Ferula oopoda Boiss. (Apiaceae), Lepidium perfoliatum L. (Brassicaeae), Nepeta bracteata Benth. (Lamiaceae), Vincetoxicum stocksit Ati &Khatoon (Asclepiadaceae), Zygophyllum fabago L. (Zygpohyllaceae). Samples were evaluated seasonally for two years from Hazarganji, Karkhasa and Zarghoon area. Micro and macro elements including P, C.a, Na, K, Fe, Mn, S, Sr, Zn, Al were analyzed by using atomic absorption spectrophotometer, flame photometer and X-ray florescence spectrophotometer. The elemental concentrations were compared with standard feed table of PARC. All the foliage analyzed showed good amount of minerals. L. perfolistum and N. bracteata were palatable and hence preferred by the small ruminants. Significantly high potassium and calcium level was found in V. stocksii and Z fabago, respectively. Both these plants also had high quantities of sodium and potassium and were not preferred by animals as food. Medium amounts of required elements were determined in F, oopodo and C. canadensis. No significant seasonal difference (P > 0.05) in the concentration of different elements was observed.