Characterization of Mistletoe Leaves Growing on Fig Plant Found in NISLT, Samonda, Ibadan Premises

Abstract

This study investigates the chemical composition of mistletoe leaves growing on fig tree. The mistletoe leaves and the fig leaves used for this research were harvested from Fig plant. Proximate analyses, phytochemical screening, Elemental and antioxidant analysis were done on both leaves. This study has provided a scientific justification that both the Fig leaves and Mistletoe leaves contained relevant phyto constituents such as alkaloids, saponins, flavonoid, and steroids; whereas antraquinones, tannins, phenols, resins and terpenoids were completely absent. Nutritionally relevant inorganic minerals like, Calcium, magnesium and potassium were the most abundant element in both plants. Proximate constituents like carbohydrates, lipids and proteins were present in varied amounts in both leaves. Result of inhibition of free radicals in fig leave extract increases with increase in concentration of the extract. The inhibition is closely comparable with that of the standard (Vitamin C) at the same concentration. The inhibition by the extracts of mistletoe grown on fig tree is low when compared with that of Fig and that of standard. This suggests that some of the chemical characteristics of mistletoe are conferred to them by their host trees.