Mineral contents in tubers of Ophiopogon and Liriope from different botanical sources and producing areas

Seventeen minerals in the tubers of Ophiopogon and Liriope from different botanical sources and harvested from various areas were determined by using ICP-AES.Their distribution characteristics were analyzed.The results showed that the Fe content and Zn/Cu ratio in the tubers of Liriope muscari(Desne)Bailey in Fujian were the highest among all samples.Thus,as far as the trace elements are concerned,the "yang yin yi qi effect"(the nutraceutical functions) of that specific species was superior to the others.The analytical results obtained from this study provide information on the mineral contents and the tuber's efficacy as a feed additive.