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Plant Science Today (PST)

Research Articles

Vol. 13 No. 3 (2026)

Assessment of heavy metal accumulation and antioxidant potential in Parthenium hysterophorus L. inhabiting urban waste disposal sites

DOI
https://doi.org/10.14719/pst.10779
Submitted
20 July 2025
Published
02-07-2026 — Updated on 09-07-2026
Versions

Abstract

Unmanaged dumping of urban waste elevates the amount of toxic heavy metals in soil. This possesses substantial risks to ecology and human health. The current study focuses on the phytoremediation and antioxidant potentials of a fast-growing weed, Parthenium hysterophorus L. Samples were collected from seven waste disposal sites in Bengaluru. The physiological effects due to stress were analysed by studying chlorophyll levels and net photosynthetic rates. Quantification of heavy metal levels in plant parts was carried out and antioxidant activity was assessed using common assays for free radical scavenging and reduction. The level of total flavonoids was assessed to interpret how it helps in adapting to stress. Site 7 showed the highest chlorophyll and photosynthetic rates among the locations studied. A strong connection appeared between flavonoid levels and antioxidant activity. This favours the idea that flavonoids help counter oxidative stress due to heavy metals. Findings from the study imply the role of P. hysterophorus in accumulating metals and defending against oxidation. It advocates that the plant could serve as an effective, low-cost option for phytoremediation in urban areas, which can help in cleaning urban dump sites sustainably.

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