Determination of Phyto-Constituents of Leaves and Tuber-like Roots of Momordica cymbalaria (Bworhauyala) Grown in Admawa State, Nigeria

Abstract

Momordica cymbalaria is a rare species that belongs to the family Cucurbitacae which is commonly found in the open field of the Lunguda people of Adamawa State, Nigeria. The plant’s root is used by the locals as substitute for soap and detergents due to its high saponin contents. The leaves are consumed by the locals as vegetable in soup preparation. Several species of Momordica have proven medicinal uses and are safe when taken in control dose. This research is aimed at revealing the phytochemical constituents of Momodica cymbalaria and relating same to its usages by the locals. The phytoconstituents of the aqueous and chloroform extracts of the leaf and root were determined. The results show that Saponin, Alkaloids, Carbohydrates, Cardiac glycosides and Balsam are presence in both the leaf and plant extract while Glycoside, Anthraquinones, Cardenolides and Phlobatannins are not presence in the plant parts. Phenols, Terpenoids, Flavonoids are identified in the leaf aqueous extract of the plant but absence in the same root solution. The chloroform extracts show the presence of steroids in the roots part and absence in the leaf. The plant has potential for use in Pharmaceutical, Cosmetics and Agrochemical industries.