Abstract

Proximate, phytochemicals and mineral elements compositions of Khaya grandifoliola (Meliaceae) and Ficus capensis (Moraceae) used to treat various types of ailments and diseases such as convulsion, stomach ache, respiratory disorders and threatened abortion, in Nigeria and other African countries were analyzed. The Fresh samples of K. grandifoliola and F. capensis stem barks were bought from Mushin Herbal Market in Lagos, they were identified and authenticated. The barks of these plants were cut into pieces and oven dried at 45°C and ground to powdery form using Marlex Exceller grinder. The phytochemicals showed the presence of saponins, tanins, alkaloids, anthraquinones, flavonoids, reducing sugars and phlobatanins in these plants. Proximate analysis showed that carbohydrate and proteins were higher, 68.12 ± 0.34 and 8.13% in K. grandifoliola and lower, 52.66 ± 0.02 and 3.63 ± 0.03% in Ficus capensis. The fiber and crude fat were higher, 16.38 ± 0.01 and 1.92 ± 0.01% in Ficus capensis and lower 3.05 ± 0.02 and 0.63 ± 0.01% in K. grandifoliola. Minerals such as magnesium, calcium, sodium, potassium, magnesium, iron and manganese were higher in F. capensis compared to K. grandifoliola. The results of this research indicated that the two plants parts have nutritional potentials that could provide the users with additional nutrients aside the conventional uses.

Key words: Ficus capensis, Khaya grandifoliola, minerals, phytochemicals.