Phytoremediation of heavy metals from the metal-polluted soil using Ricinus communis

Abstract

Soil heavy metal (HM) pollution is a major worldwide issue that poses a risk to the environment, ecosystems, and human health. Commonly occurring HMs in soil that pose environmental and health hazards are lead (Pb), cadmium (Cd), mercury (Hg), arsenic (As), chromium (Cr), and nickel (Ni). Remediation techniques, such as phytoremediation, soil washing, and soil stabilization, are employed to mitigate HM pollution and restore contaminated soil to safe levels. Remediating soil by HMs pollution can be done more affordably and sustainably by using phytoremediation. Many plant species have confirmed the capability of accumulating HMs and then immobilizing or detoxifying them through a range of processes, including hydraulic control, phytostabilization, rhizo-degradation, phytoextraction, rhizofiltration, and phytovolatilization. The phytoremediation technique is environment-friendly, more widely applicable, and reasonably priced. Numerous elements, such as plant choice, soil quality, pollutant properties, and ambient conditions, are crucial for phytoremediation success. Among many plants, Ricinus communis is the plant whose potential as a phytoremediation agent has been thoroughly investigated. This is because of its capacity to both tolerate and absorb heavy metals (HMs) and organic contaminants from contaminated soil and water. In addition to its phytoremediation capabilities, Ricinus communis has several other benefits that make it an attractive option for remediation projects. It is a fast-growing, hardy plant that can grow in various environmental conditions, making it suitable for use in various contaminated sites. It also has a deep root system that can penetrate and loosen compacted soils, improving soil structure and promoting water infiltration. However, further research is needed to fully comprehend the complex interactions between these factors and develop integrated strategies for effective and long-lasting phytoremediation. © Springer Nature Singapore Pte Ltd. 2025. All rights reserved.