Published in PLOS One on 2026-05-14, this study is presented as an attributed evidence briefing. The excerpts below are the original researchers’ words, reproduced under their Creative Commons Attribution licence. HealthSignal has selected the abstract and, where needed, opening background paragraphs; the complete methods, results, limitations and references remain in the linked paper.
Original authors: Ashenafi Miresa, Taye Tolemariam, Belay Duguma, Ellen S. Dierenfeld, Geert P. J. Janssens, Abebe Nigussie, Feyissa Begna
Source: PLOS One • DOI 10.1371/journal.pone.0348764
Read the complete primary study ↗ · Creative Commons Attribution licence
From the researchers
Abstract
Natural mineral water (“hora”) and mineral-enriched surrounding soils are potential mineral supplements for cattle, yet comprehensive data on their physicochemical properties, mineral concentration and contribution to animal nutrition have been lacking. Thus, this study aimed to evaluate the mineral composition and physicochemical properties of hora, and the mineral-enriched surrounding soils in the study area. Hora and the soil samples were collected in triplicate from each district, processed, and analyzed for physicochemical properties and mineral concentrations. The physicochemical parameters (temperature, electrical conductivity, total dissolved solids, pH, dissolved oxygen, total hardness, total turbidity, sulfate, nitrate, ammonia, chloride), and mineral concentration (calcium, potassium, sodium, magnesium, phosphorus, sulfur, iron, zinc, copper, molybdenum, selenium, and manganese in hora and soil samples were examined. Results revealed significant variation (p < 0.05) in physicochemical properties and mineral concentrations of hora across the districts. While many physicochemical properties of hora were found within the critical range for cattle, elevated electrical conductivity (up to 2900 µS/cm), total dissolved solids (up to 1700 mg/L), and ammonia (up to 1.14 mg/L), raise concerns for its suitability for cattle. Furthermore, soil concentrations of iron (31.4 g/kg), molybdenum (200 mg/kg), and manganese (921 mg/kg) exceeded maximum tolerable limits for cattle, indicating that unsupervised soil ingestion could negatively impact animal health. While these sources offer a promising natural mineral source, their high salinity and potentially toxic mineral levels in soil necessitate careful consideration for cattle nutrition. Therefore, further research is necessary to develop sustainable management strategies for hora and assess its long-term implications in animal nutrition and health.
Introduction
Natural mineral water is defined as “microbiologically wholesome” discharge from the underground sources, ensuring the absence of major contaminants, and containing a minimum of 150 mg/L of minerals [1]. These waters are a good source of essential minerals, including calcium, magnesium, potassium, sulfur, and sodium, which are important in biological reactions and physiological processes [2]. Natural mineral water sources, and the areas often associated with them, like its soils adjacent to these sources, are prevalent in both temperate and tropical ecosystems [3]. These sites frequently attract wildlife and livestock seeking mineral supplementation [4,5]. In Ethiopia, these natural mineral water sources are locally known as “hora” [6–8]. Hora water, naturally rich in various minerals often leads to the deposition of minerals in the adjacent soil due to evaporation and seepage, transforming these areas into its soil. While not a conventional natural salt lick, this soil can effectively function as a mineral supplement for animals. Animals commonly visit these areas to consume the mineral-rich soil or drink the mineral water to supplement their diet and facilitate the digestive process [9–11].
Reading this evidence
Use the full paper to check the study design, participant selection, comparator and outcome definitions before drawing a practical conclusion. An association does not by itself show cause and effect. A reported performance measure needs its denominator and uncertainty. A finding from a particular facility, sample or time period should retain that scope when it is discussed elsewhere.
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© 2026 Ashenafi Miresa, Taye Tolemariam, Belay Duguma, Ellen S. Dierenfeld, Geert P. J. Janssens, Abebe Nigussie, Feyissa Begna. Excerpts reproduced under CC BY. Selection, formatting and contextual notes by HealthSignal. The researchers are the authors of the source study, not members of HealthSignal’s staff.
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