Six oral thyme-herb liquid products from Polish pharmacies were analyzed for total chromium by electrothermal atomic absorption spectrometry. Chromium was found in all six at 2.0 to 6.0 µg/L, and estimated daily intake from labeled use was below 200 ng/day.
Key numbers
- Total chromium: 2.0 ± 0.3 µg/L (product E) to 6.0 ± 0.4 µg/L (product F); A 2.3 ± 0.2 and C 2.4 ± 0.3 µg/L (Results, p. 2986; Figure 1).
- LOD 1.65 µg/L and LOQ 4.95 µg/L; certified reference material BCR-482 (lichen) measured 0.137 against 0.134 mg/kg certified, recovery 97.81% (p. 2985).
- Estimated chromium per single dose 20.15 to 63.45 ng; per day 40.30 to 181.41 ng (Tables 3 and 4, pp. 2985 to 2986).
Methods (brief)
ETAAS with a L’vov platform and a dedicated temperature program; tiered assessment comparing concentration, single-dose and daily exposure with the ICH Q3D oral permitted daily exposure.
Evidence fitness
Supports low total-chromium concentrations in six thyme herbal liquids sold in Polish pharmacies. It does not establish chromium species or wider market prevalence.
Limitations
Several reported concentrations lie below the stated LOQ of 4.95 µg/L; only one lot per product; the permitted daily exposure is printed both as 10,700 µg/day and 10,700 mg/day.
Related evidence
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