Abstract
The preliminary study of the leaf of Ficus Sur (Forssk) was conducted to ascertain its medicinal and nutritional qualities. Phytochemical analysis and antimicrobial activity were conducted. Micro elements and vitamins B and C were also determined by atomic absorption spectrophotometry and titrimetry respectively. Results of the analysis revealed the presence of iron, copper, magnesium and manganese as well as vitamin C and B at various levels. The leaf was found to show antimicrobial activity against many bacteria such as Enterobacter aerogens, Bacillus species, Pseudomonas pyocyania and Staphylococcus aureus. Antifungal activity against Aspergillus niger and Aspergillus flavus was also established. The phytochemical study indicated the presence of flavonoids, saponins, alkaloids, tannins, proteins, reducing sugar, fats and oil and carbohydrate. The leaf extract of this plant can therefore satisfactorily cure diseases like anemia, malnutrition, cold and supportive infections like boil, skin pustules, conjunctivitis, septicaemia, intestinal diseases, food poisoning, surgical wounds and burns, acute bacterial endocarditis and bacterimia.
Highlights
Plant products have been used by ethnic tribes of Nigeria from time immemorial for treatment of various ailments and protection against disease vectors
The phytochemical analysis of the powdered leaf sample reveals the presence of many metabolites like saponins, flavonoids, alkaloids, tannins, resins, reducing sugar, protein, oil and carbohydrate which are necessary for the functioning of human system (Nsi,2006).The results are in agreement with those obtained by Ahmad (2016)
Vitamin C which is very important in the formation of blood cell is seen to be contained by this plant
Summary
Plant products have been used by ethnic tribes of Nigeria from time immemorial for treatment of various ailments and protection against disease vectors. A medicinal plant is any plant which contains in any of its organs substances that can be used for therapeutic purposes or which are precursors for the synthesis of useful drugs (Sofowora, 1982). Apart from their efficacy, it is very important to mention their little or no side effects in the treatment of diseases because they act as foods and medicines. Unlike the conventional ones that will dilute the arteries or the veins until they reach their maximum elastic point which may suddenly burst and cause vascular accident causing stroke or death.
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