Acta Scientiarum Polonorum

Abstract: Studies of the accumulation of heavy metal ions in the organs of common broom Cytisus scoparius were carried out in 2002 on the population occurring in the area of the former shooting range “Muszaki-Jagarzewo” on the Masurian Plain. The herb, roots, flowers and seeds of common broom contain alkaloids, mostly spartein and sarotamine, which makes them useful in treating heart and kidney diseases. The levels of metal ions in the organs of this plant, which is abundant in the study area, were determined to assess whether the plants growing there are suitable as a herbal raw material. Manganese and zinc were accumulated the most intensively by the common broom organs, with the levels being the highest in the leaves, stems and flowers, and the lowest in fruits.