Nutritional and Phytochemical Investigation of Boerhaavia diffusa L. an Edible Wild Vegetable in South West Nigeria

Abstract

The leaves and roots of Boerhaavia diffusa L. were analysed for phytochemical, proximate and mineral compositions. The results of the qualitative phytochemical screening revealed the presence of alkaloids, saponins, phlobatanins, cardiac glycosides and reducing sugar in both the leaves and roots of the plant. More so, Tannins and phenols were found in the roots while flavonoids and terpenoids were found in the leaves. The results of the quantitative composition of the phytochemicals showed that the roots and leaves of the vegetable were rich sources of alkaloids (19.91±0.74% and 28.57±0.30%), saponins (66.65±0.83% and 45.91±0.67%) and cardiac glycosides (45.13± 0.13% and 56.29± 0.25%). Proximate results showed that the roots and leaves of the wild vegetable had low moisture content (14.14±0.23% and 14.34±0.02%), ash content (5.32± 0.04% and 4.09 ±0.42%), crude protein (4.80± 0.05% and 2.42 ± 0.06 %), very low crude fat (0.40±0.10% and 0.45 ± 0.59%), high crude fiber (29.65 ±0.00% and 30.44± 0.42%) and moderate Carbohydrate (45.65± 0.09% and 48.29 ± 0.09%) respectively. The vegetable was rich in Na, K, Ca, Mg and Fe with moderate amount of Cu, Zn, and Mn while Pb and Ni (heavy metals) were not detected. This wild vegetable investigated contained bioactive phytochemicals that might support its excellent therapeutic uses in the treatment and prevention of diseases. The vegetable could also serve as energy and mineral rich food supplement.