Successful Conclusion of the Research Project on Nutrient and Heavy Metal Concentrations in Medicinal and Aromatic Plants in Kosovo
The closing presentation of the project took place on July 5, 2024, at the Meeting Hall of the Faculty of Life Sciences and Environment, with both physical and online participation. Attendees included representatives from NGOs, Ministries, Universities, students, Municipal Directorates, the Forestry Agency, and the Forestry Institute, Private Bissnees, Faculty Advisoy Board, Representatives from USAID and UNDP, etc..
The research focused on 28 different medicinal and aromatic plants collected from the “Agroproduct” collection point in Kosovo. The primary objectives were to assess the concentration of heavy metals and minerals in these plants, determine their nutritional value, and evaluate the potential health risks associated with their consumption if heavy metal concentrations exceeded permissible limits set by international standards.
Key Findings and Objectives:
- Heavy Metal Accumulation and Mineral Content: The study assessed the accumulation of heavy metals and the mineral content in 28 different medicinal and aromatic plants sold in Kosovo markets.
- Nutrient Requirement Fulfillment: The research evaluated the ability of these plants to meet daily nutrient requirements.
- Risk Assessment: Potential risks associated with the use of these products were evaluated, considering heavy metal concentrations.
- Environmental Assessment: The study assessed the environmental condition and the products concerning heavy metal concentration.
The research team comprised four professors from FSHJM: Prof. Assoc. Dr. Albana Milaimi (Project Leader), Dr. Sc. Liridon Buqaj, Prof. Assoc. Dr. Kushtrim Braha, and Prof. Assoc. Dr. Nol Krasniqi. The project also included contributions from Prof. Assoc. Dr. Sheval Memishi from the University of Tetova, Prof. Assoc. Dr. İbrahim Ertuğrul Yalçın from Bahçeşehir University, and PhDc Belma Nallbani Gjergjizi from Marmara University, who has now earned her Doctorate.
Two students, Yllka Shehdadi and Urtina Avdija, who have now graduated from the Forest and Environment Sciences Program, were actively involved in the research.
The project also facilitated the acquisition of a PCR-biosafety cabinet for the Faculty’s laboratory, contributing significantly to future research capabilities. Participation in the 6th International Conference of Natural Sciences and Mathematics in Tetova, North Macedonia, and the preparation of a scientific paper titled “Assessment of Mineral Nutrition Level and Heavy Metals Toxicity in Kosovo Herbal Remedies” are among the notable achievements of the project.
This project exemplifies the importance of inter-collegial, inter-university collaboration, and the involvement of students in research, fostering an environment of academic excellence and scientific inquiry.
