Phytochemical and Proximate Analyses of the Aqueous Extracts of Datura stramonium Seeds and Leaves
Joshua, Parker Elijah1, Asomadu, Rita Onyedikachukwu1, Abonyi, Uchenna Collins2*,Obeta Judith Nnedimkpa1, Okeke, Emmanuel Sunday1,3 , Ugwu, Onyedikachi Daniel4 , Eze, Ezinne Nwanneka1
1.Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Biological Sciences, University of Nigeria, Nsukka, Enugu State, Nigeria.
2.Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Nigeria, Nsukka, Enugu State, Nigeria.
3.Natural Science Unit, School of General Studies., University of Nigeria, Nsukka.
4.Department of Animal Production Technology, Federal College of Agriculture, Ishiagu, Ebonyi State, Nigeria.
| Key words:
Datura stramonium, photochemistry, Proximate analysis
*Corresponding author: 0906 823 9329 DOI: 10.48245/tnpr-2734391.2021.1.204 Page No.: 99-108 |
Abstract This study analysed the phytochemical and proximate constituents of Datura stramonium seeds and leaves. Qualitative and quantitative phytochemical analyses were achieved using standard methods and the methods of AOAC (Association of Official Analytical Chemists) were used in determining the proximate constituents. Phytochemical analysis indicated that the amount of alkaloids, tannins and phenols in the seed and leaf extracts were 12.67 % and 14.33 %, 0.15 %and 0.12 %, 1.76 % and 0.94 % respectively. Flavonoids, saponins and steroids were present in the leaf extract but absent in the seed, while terpenoids and glycosides were present in the seed, but absent in the leaf extract. Carotenoids, anthraquinones and antrocyanins were absent in both extracts. Proximate analysis showed that the seed extract contained higher moisture (10.67 %), crude fibre (27.17 %) and carbohydrate content (41.05 %) compared to the leaf, with moisture, fibre and carbohydrate content of 5.67 %, 12.15 % and 29.03 % respectively. The leaf extract contained higher protein (13.80 %) and ash (4.33 %) contents compared to the seed, which had protein and ash content of 35.15 % and 15.67 % respectively. There was no significant (p > 0.05) difference in the fat content of both extracts. Datura stramonium seeds and leaves contain varying phytochemical and proximate constituents, which could account for the pharmacological activities of the plant. High proximate constituents also imply that the plant is of medicinal and industrial importance.
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