Medicinal and aromatic pants as innovative and sustainable approach for phytoremediation of polluted soils

Soil contamination by heavy metals and nitrates from industrial and agricultural sources poses critical environmental and health risks globally. This study examines the potential of medicinal and aromatic plants (MAPs)—specifically Urtica dioica L., Melissa officinalis L., and Hypericum perforatum L.—for phytoremediation of nitrate and nickel-contaminated soils. Phytoremediation is a sustainable and cost-effective method, based on the uptake abilities of non-edible plants to reduce contaminants in soil without introducing these pollutants into the food chain. Urtica dioica L., a nitrophilous species, was evaluated for nitrate uptake in Nitrate Vulnerable Zones of Emilia Romagna, Italy, showing high biomass yields under nitrate-rich conditions and promising bioactive compounds content. Additionally, Melissa officinalis L. and Hypericum perforatum L., tested for nickel uptake in controlled environments, exhibited tolerance and accumulation capacities, with nickel retained in roots. Both species showed high essential oil and biomass production as well as bioactive compounds production in Nickel-contaminate conditions. Results indicate that MAPs are effective in absorbing and stabilizing soil contaminants while producing valuable secondary metabolites. This integrated approach highlights MAPs as promising agents for mitigating soil pollution, producing commercially valuable compounds, and supporting sustainable environmental management practices.