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A recent study shows that a miracle plant is capable of getting rid of 98% of microplastics in drinking water.
The research, which was published by ACS Publications, shows that Moringa oleifera, also known as the "tree of life," can remove toxins from water and can also perform as chemical treatments.
“The saline extract from the seeds performs similarly to aluminum sulfate, which is used in treatment plants to coagulate water containing microplastics,” said, Gabrielle Batista, the author of the study. “In more alkaline waters, it performed even better than the chemical product.”
The study showed that the plant effectively removed more than 98% of microplastics, comparable to the rate as chemical treatments. Morgina has already received praise for its wide range of medicinal benefits and used to treat wounds, reduce inflammation, treat liver, heart disease, and cancer, while its high mineral content also makes it an ingredient for skincare products and moisturizers.
There's been a recent shift toward a more chemical-free lifestyle, particularly in drinking water, according to data.
“There’s increasing regulatory scrutiny and health concerns regarding the use of aluminum- and iron-based coagulants, as they aren’t biodegradable, leave residual toxicity, and pose a risk of disease,” said lead study researcher Adriano Gonçalves dos Reis. “For that reason, the search for sustainable alternatives has intensified.”