PROXIMATE, PHYTOCHEMICALS AND MINERAL COMPOSITION OF SOME SELECTED FOREST LEAFY VEGETABLES

ABSTRACT The nutritional value of leafy tree species cannot be overemphasized due to the fact that it provides food for man, animals and even raw materials. This study aimed to assess the proximate, phytochemicals and mineral composition of some selected forest leafy vegetables commonly cultivated, sold and consumed in Choba, Port Harcourt Rivers State, Nigeria. The four leafy vegetables include: Piper guinensis, Gnetum africanum, Heinsia crinite and Pterocarpus mildbraedii obtained from a local market trader at Choba market, ObioAkpor local government area, Port Harcourt, Rivers state, Nigeria. The fresh leaves were washed thoroughly and carefully with distilled water and air dried at 28°C for five days. The dried plant materials were grounded to powder using an electric blender in the laboratory. The powdered sample was used to determine the proximate analysis, phytochemical and mineral composition of the species. The proximate analysis showed that there were significant variations (P≤0.05) among proximate components analysed. The results also revealed the presence of medically active compounds in the four plants studied. The four plants studied displayed a low concentration in ash and crude fat content, moderate concentration in moisture content, crude fibre and crude protein and a high concentration in dry matter and carbohydrate. Findings from the research showed that there were significant variations (P≤0.05) among the phytochemical components analysed. The results also revealed the presence of phytochemical elements in the four plants studied. The four plants studied displayed a high concentration Ca, K, P and Mg; moderate Concentration in Fe and Na, while low concentration was found in Cu, Zn and Mn. The selected commonly consumed leafy vegetables were found to contain substantial amount of phytochemicals and minerals which play a significant role in establishing a healthier management of human organ system.