Phytochemical screening and proximate analysis of young Cola acuminata leaves

Abstract

Oxidative stress and impaired antioxidant system have been implicated in the pathophysiology of diverse disease states. Phytochemical screening and proximate analysis of dried young cola nitida leaves used in folklore medicine were carried out. The result revealed the presence of bioactive components comprising of alkaloids, phenolic acid, carotenoids, and flavonoid. Quantitative phytochemical analyses showed that alkaloid have the highest concentration. Proximate analysis of the sample showed the moisture content of the sample is (23.10±0.12), carbohydrate (36.80±0.25), crude fibre (19.20±0.1), crude protein (13.50±0.10), and ash content (6.70±0.07). The presence of secondary metabolites in this plant is indicative that if well researched, novel bioactive compounds can be discovered in it.