Biochemistry & Analytical Biochemistry

Abstract

Nutritional Characterization of Combretum dolichopentalum Leaves

Ujowundu FN, Ukoha AI, Ojiako AO and Nwaoguikpe RN

The nutritional value of Combretum dolichopentalum was determined by its proximate, mineral, amino acids and vitamin compositions. The macronutrients such as protein, lipid, moisture, fibre, ash were in varying concentration with carbohydrate recording the highest concentration (63.35 ± 4.93%). Elements present were potassium, sodium, phosphorus and iron amongst others. Vitamins A, E and B-vitamins, such as riboflavin, pyridoxine, folate, and biotin, were recorded, with niacin (2.26 ± 0.07 mg/ml) showing the highest concentrations. Leucine and glutamate were the highest essential and non essential amino acids respectively. Total aliphatic amino acid (TAAA) and Sulphur containing amino acid were recorded as 20.38 g/100 g and1.7 g/100 g respectively. The result showed that C. dolichopentalum possess nutritional potentials for energy metabolism and vital nutrients to maintain a state of desirable nutrition that could enhance the curative process of diseased conditions and maintenance of disrupted homeostatic status.