文摘
Transfer rates of toxic metals during herbal decoction preparation were investigated using risk assessment tools. Decoction samples were analyzed using Inductively Coupled Plasma-Mass Spectrometer (ICP-MS) and a mercury analyzer after microwave digestion. The average decoction transfer rate (%) for each toxic metal after boiling was 10.5 for As, 4.3 for Pb, 4.1 for Cd, and 2.7 for Hg. A risk assessment of toxic metals in decoctions was performed based on the percentage provisional tolerable weekly intake (PTWI) values for a mean value scenario and a 95th percentile value scenario. Samples were collected of 68 decoctions representing 8 types frequently prescribed by oriental medicine clinics in Seoul, Korea. Both scenarios demonstrated low PTWI values. All decoction samples were safe according to risk assessment results.