Phytoremediation Potential of Medicinal and Aromatic Plants: A Bioeconomical Approach

Environmental contamination of heavy metals is a significant problem, and phytoremediation is a viable approach to remediate contaminated sites. This book provides a critical overview of the prospects of utilizing medicinal and aromatic plants in phytoremediation, including their utility, economic benefits, and human safety issues. It is of interest to teachers, researchers, doctoral, and graduate students working in environmental pollution and cleanup technologies, as well as students working in the field of metal(loid) stress and crop biofortification.

Format: Hardback
Length: 198 pages
Publication date: 31 October 2023
Publisher: Taylor & Francis Ltd

Environmental contamination of heavy metals poses a significant threat to sustainable agricultural production and the health of millions of people worldwide. The widespread distribution of heavy metals in soil and water necessitates the use of environmentally friendly, cost-effective, and sustainable approaches for remediation of contaminated sites. Phytoremediation, a promising approach, has been explored as a solution to these challenges. However, it is crucial for phytoremediation to offer economic benefits as well. The incorporation of economically valuable medicinal and aromatic plants into phytoremediation processes can aid in the restoration of metal-contaminated sites while also providing economic advantages to farmers.

This book provides a critical assessment of the potential of utilizing medicinal and aromatic plants in phytoremediation, encompassing their utility, economic benefits, and human safety considerations. It serves as a timely addition to the field and will be considered a landmark publication. The book is of interest to teachers, researchers, doctoral and graduate students engaged in environmental pollution and cleanup technologies. Students specializing in metal(loid) stress and crop biofortification will also find this book valuable. The content of the book is presented in a straightforward manner, accompanied by beautiful and scientifically informative figures and tables.

The use of medicinal and aromatic plants in phytoremediation offers several advantages. Firstly, these plants possess natural properties that enable them to absorb, accumulate, and degrade heavy metals from the environment. Their extensive root systems and phytoextraction capabilities make them effective in removing metals from contaminated soil and water. Additionally, medicinal and aromatic plants have various therapeutic properties, making them valuable in the treatment of metal-related diseases and disorders.

Furthermore, phytoremediation using medicinal and aromatic plants can provide economic benefits to farmers. These plants can be cultivated on marginal lands, which are not suitable for traditional agriculture, thus providing an alternative source of income for farmers. Moreover, the demand for these plants for medicinal and aromatic purposes is growing, creating potential market opportunities for farmers.

However, it is important to note that the use of medicinal and aromatic plants in phytoremediation also raises certain concerns regarding human safety. Some plants may contain toxic compounds that can be harmful to human health if consumed or exposed to in high concentrations. Therefore, proper safety measures and guidelines must be followed during phytoremediation processes to ensure the protection of workers and the surrounding environment.

In conclusion, environmental contamination of heavy metals is a pressing issue that requires innovative and sustainable solutions. Phytoremediation, with the incorporation of economically valuable medicinal and aromatic plants, presents a promising approach to address this problem. This book provides a comprehensive overview of the prospects of utilizing these plants in phytoremediation, highlighting their utility, economic benefits, and human safety considerations. By understanding the potential of medicinal and aromatic plants in phytoremediation, we can work towards a cleaner and healthier environment for present and future generations.

Weight: 560g
Dimension: 254 x 178 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781032269108