Tolerance and accumulation of lead by fenugreek

Abstract

In the present study, the response of fenugreek (Trigonella foenumgraceum L.) along with remediation potential was tested against lead (Pb). A pot trial was set up in order to evaluate remediation efficiency of T. foenumgraceum. Growth parameters and remediation potential of fenugreek against different concentrations of Pb was compared. Different physical parameters were studied. Biochemical parameters like chlorophyll content, soluble protein, total soluble sugar and proline were analyzed. The results showed that fenugreek accumulated Pb and translocated it in the harvestable parts of the plants. Metal accumulation increased consistently with increasing concentration of Pb in the treatments. Dry matter yield of plant increased with decreasing Pb concentration in the treatment. In conclusion, fenugreek can be used for remediation of Pb contaminated soil.

Evaluation of Trigonella foenum-graecum L. Plant Food Safety after Lead Exposure: Phytochemical Processes

“…Similar observations were recorded by Xalxo and Keshavkant [ 10 ] who clarified that fenugreek treated with 1200 mg L −1 of lead was able to accumulate Pb in roots more than shoots. Furthermore, Kaur [ 12 ] reported that the Pb accumulation capacity of fenugreek cultivated with 800 mg L −1 of Pb during 30 days was more important in roots than shoots. A recent study revealed that fenugreek stressed by zinc (Zn) and aluminum (Al) had an important accumulation factor of these HMs [ 7 ].…”

“…The phenomenon of metal accumulation in roots more than shoots can be interpreted in terms of the intervention of a chemiosmosis process across the membrane of intact root cells [ 24 ]. It could also be correlated with a low TF leading to a higher potential of phytostabilization of HMs in plant roots [ 12 ].…”

“…In Tunisia, fenugreek is widely cultivated in the northwestern, northern and northeastern regions [ 9 ]. It has been investigated not only as a multipurpose medicinal herb through the extraction of phenolic compound to be used in pharmacological field [ 10 ], but also in phytoremediation programs [ 11 , 12 ]. In traditional medicine, fenugreek is used to prepare infusions, water and alcohol extracts, etc., to different purposes; notably as an antidepressant, for skin problems, treatment of gastrointestinal disorders and eye diseases.…”