In detail
ICP-MS ionizes a digested sample in a high-temperature plasma and separates the ions by mass-to-charge ratio. It can measure many elements in one run at parts-per-billion levels, which is why it is the usual method for heavy-metal panels on botanical extracts.
Sample preparation matters: incomplete digestion, contamination, and matrix effects can all change the result. The certificate should report each element separately, with the limit and the method. A single 'heavy metals' total hides which element failed and at what level.
Why it matters to a buyer
- Botanical extracts concentrate soil-borne metals along with the desired compounds.
- Retailers and markets apply different limits by element and product category.
- Element-specific results are needed to investigate a failed lot or a supplier change.
What to ask a supplier
Which elements were tested, and what are the reporting limits?
Was the laboratory accredited for this method?
Can you provide the raw result for each element rather than a total?
References and further reading
External links are provided for orientation. Requirements differ by market, product, and dose; confirm with your regulatory advisor.
Cite this page
Rainwood Botanical. "Inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry." Botanical extract glossary, October 2026. https://ingredients.rainwoodbio.com/resources/glossary/icp-ms/