Chemical Profile and Proximate and Elemental Composition of Ocimum basilicum Grown in Sudan

Abstract

This study aimed to investigate the chemical profile, proximate and elemental composition of leaves and flowers of Ocimum basilicum grown in Sudan. Gas Chromatography-Mass Spectrometer (GC-MS) was used for the analysis of the n-hexane extracts. Results showed that fifty six compounds were detected from the aerial part of the plant. Most of the identified compounds were terpenoids. Monoterpenes represented 47.19%of the n-hexane extract while sesquiterpenes were 32.51%. The major compounds were linalool (18.16%), methyl eugenol (16.18%), α-terpineol (10.02%), and Eucalyptol (8.51%) respectively. Chemical proximate analysis was carried using standard analytical methods. Results showed that the plant was rich in moisture content, total ash, crude fiber and fiber protein. Elemental analysis was performed using the Atomic Absorption Spectrometer and flame emission for the detection of Ca, Fe, Na, K, Mg, Pb and Mn. Results demonstrated higher calcium and potassium contents. In conclusion O. basilicum grown in Sudan was a good source of food and therapeutic agents which could be of use in food and pharmaceutical industries.