TAGRA 2025

Abstract
Thymus incertus Klok, a member of the Lamiaceae family, is widely recognized in pharmacopoeias and ethnomedicine for its therapeutic properties. Its extracts are used to manage gastrointestinal disorders, cough, bronchitis, and pertussis, and as antiseptics for oral hygiene, wound care, and throat rinses in laryngitis. Bioactive constituents, including essential oils and thymol, are incorporated into medicinal formulations such as syrups, ointments, and inhalants. A quantitative evaluation of macro- and micronutrient composition was performed using ICP-MS to assess elemental content and safety. Macroelement concentrations were determined as follows: calcium 12,243 ppm, potassium 38,614 ppm, magnesium 2,524 ppm, phosphorus 3,519 ppm, and sulfur 1,299 ppm, indicating the plant is a rich source of nutrients essential for metabolic and physiological functions. Trace elements analysis showed iron at 393 ppm, slightly above reference ranges, whereas copper (4.69 ppm), zinc (17.1 ppm), and boron (19.1 ppm) were slightly below normative values. Chromium approached the upper limit of its range, and arsenic was minimally elevated (<3.2 ppm). Other micronutrients, including cobalt, manganese, molybdenum, lithium, and selenium, were within normal limits. Toxic metals – cadmium (0.036 ppm), mercury (0.064 ppm), and lead (0.94 ppm) – were within safety thresholds. The elemental profile confirms that T. incertus provides essential nutrients at levels supportive of human health, with no hazardous excesses. Minor deviations in trace elements are not considered detrimental. These data serve as a reference for future studies and quality control in herbal preparations, emphasizing the importance of periodic monitoring to ensure safety and efficacy in medicinal and nutritional applications.