Proximate Analysis and Phytochemical Composition of Uvaria chamae Root

Abstract

Uvaria chamae in Nigeria has a wide spread reputation as a medicinal plant, and is valued for its hypoglycaemic properties as it provides an alternative treatment for diabetes. This study was undertaken to assess the phytochemical, mineral constituents and the proximate composition of the root of Uvaria chamae. Standard analytical procedures were used for the determinations. Proximate analysis of Uvaria chamae root indicated the presence of ash (3.88 ± 0.17%), moisture (6.25 ± 0.20%), fat and oil (7.00 ± 0.30%), crude fibre (47.27 ± 0.40%), protein (1.25 ± 0.10%), carbohydrate (34.35 ± 0.60%), and the elemental constituents are Ca (40.50 ± 0.80 mg/100g), Mg (12.76 ± 0.40 mg/100g), K (1.40 ± 0.10 mg/100g), P (48.3 ± 0.50 mg/100g), Fe (51.00 ± 0.60 mg/100g), Mn (1.70 ± 0.10), Cu (0.10 ± 0.01 mg/100g) and Pb (< detection limit). Phytochemical screening showed the presence of alkaloids (2.25 ± 0.10%), tannins (0.06 ± 0.00%), flavonoids (10.47 ± 0.50%), oxalates (0.27 ± 0.01%), saponins (2.87 ± 0.10%), and cyanogenic glycosides (0.02 ± 0.00 %). The demonstration of the richness of Uvaria chamae in phytochemicals and minerals in this study is a pointer to the medicinal and nutritive value of this plant.
Keywords: Uvaria chamae, Proximate, Phytochemical, Root