Characterization of leaves used in infusion preparation grown in northeastern Brazil by chemometric methods based on their multi-elemental composition
The functional role of trace elements is described in terms of their nutritionally essential role or their potential toxicity. Such a distinction is not absolute, since several elements are in categories, depending upon the dosage, route of administration and the form of the chemical species. Likewise, the excess or absence of minerals has important consequences for the organism (Jyothi et al., 2003).