PROXIMATE ANALYSIS, MINERAL COMPOSITION AND PHYTOCHEMICALS SCREENING ON FICUS PLATYPHYLLA STEM BARK (GAMJI)
Abstract
This study evaluated the phytochemical composition, proximate content, and elemental profile of Ficus platyphylla stem bark. Phytochemical screening revealed the presence of alkaloids, flavonoids, tannins, and saponins, while glycosides were absent, suggesting potential antioxidant, antimicrobial, and therapeutic properties. Proximate analysis showed high carbohydrate content (84.1%), moderate protein (7.5%) and crude fiber (4.5%), low fat (0.6%), moisture (1.5%), and ash (1.8%), indicating that the stem bark is a good energy source with nutritional and digestive benefits, suitable for low-fat diets and long-term storage. Elemental analysis revealed significant levels of calcium (0.91 g/dm³), magnesium (0.44 g/dm³), potassium (0.40 g/dm³), iron (0.45 g/dm³), and zinc (0.04 g/dm³), supporting its potential role in bone health, blood formation, electrolyte balance, and immune function. The low standard deviations across all parameters indicate consistent composition among samples. Overall, the findings confirm that Ficus platyphylla stem bark is a rich source of essential nutrients and bioactive compounds, validating its use in traditional medicine and highlighting its potential for nutritional and therapeutic applications.
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