Effect of Strychnos potatorum Linn. Seed Extracts on Water Samples from Different Sources and with Diverse Properties
In developing countries, ground water, which is contaminated with domestic and industrial waste, is commonly used for drinking. Colour, turbidity and microbial content affect quality of potable water. Strychnos potatorum (Linn.) seeds are known to function as coagulants and clarify water. Our study investigated the effect of the seed powder (10-40 mg L-1) on water samples of varying colour, turbidity and microbial content. Samples studied were of river Yamuna, industrial effluent, a recreational pond, tap water and distilled water. pH was maintained within ±5 units while alkalinity was within one unit, showing that taste parameters were not affected. There was an 82-98% decrease in absorbance, denoting the seed’s clarifying effect. The reduction in heterotrophic microbial load was 99% when 10 mg L-1 of seed powder was added. Ames test demonstrated non-toxicity of the seed at the concentrations tested. This simple method can help as an effective and affordable pre-treatment method and bring down the costs of secondary treatment.
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