Phytoremediation in Disinfection of Water from Underground Sources: Perception Study

Abstract

Application of phytoremediation in disinfection was studied using extracts of Tulsi, Neem and Amla in underground water in rural area of eastern Pune metropolitan region. The perception study involved understanding the potential of hydroalcoholic extracts of leaves of Tulsi, Neem and Amla in disinfection of underground water. Secondly optimizing the dose and time required for complete disinfection by the extracts. Thirdly a liquid herbal preparation for disinfection using extracts was formulated and studied, and also further used for achieving complete disinfection of onsite households' water. The disinfection effect of crude powder of leaves of plants was also noted. Study area being agrarian area, a survey was taken to create awareness and highlight the outcome of the studies done so far. The 3M petri film method was used for disinfection study. The extracts of Tulsi, Neem and Amla completely disinfected 10ml of water at a dose of 10.56mg, 21.4mg and 12.03mg respectively. Herbal preparation containing 90mg extracts completely disinfected 500ml of underground water of study sites and households. The responses of crude powder were very less potent as compared to extracts. Finally, the results conclude that phytoremediation by commonly and abundantly available plants can be used for disinfection.