Bioinorganic elemental content of the Ghanaian aphrodisiac medicinal plant, Paullina pinnata Linn. (Sapindaceae)

Macro and micro element content of dried roots sample of Paullinia pinnata Linn. (Sapindaceae) in Ghana were analyzed using energy-dispersive x-ray fluorescence (ED-XRF) technique. The aim was to study the possible quantitative correlation between the measured elements and the traditional usage of the plant in the treatment of sexual dysfunction or enhancing/sustaining penile erection. The analyses yielded forty-five (45) elements, of which the concentrations of four (4) elements- calcium, magnesium, potassium and zinc were significantly high. These elements are considered to play a significant role in the physiology of sexual activity or promote penile erection. They may serve as bio-markers and also support the traditional use of the roots of P. pinnata as an aphrodisiac in some Ghanaian communities. Heavy metals such as arsenic, cadmium, lead and mercury were also measured and quantified. The quantities of these elements were below detection limits to warrant any toxicity concerns when the plant is used as aphrodisiac. Key words: Aphrodisiac, Paullinia pinnata Linn. (Sapindaceae), ED-XRF, macro and micro element, sexual activity, penile erection, heavy metals.