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International Journal of Molecular Medicine and Advance Sciences

Phytochemicals, Vitamins and Mineral Contents of Two Nigerian Medicinal Plants
D.E. Okwu

Abstract: Samples of two Nigerian medicinal plants (Garcinia Kola Heckel) and (Aframomum melegueta) were analyzed for their phytochemical composition, vitamins and minerals constituents. The result revealed the presence of bioactive constituents comprising: flavonoids (5.76-1.98 mg 100 1g), phenols (0.09-0.11 mg 100 1g), saponins (1.24-11.48 mg 100 1g), tannins, (0.26-0.38 mg/100g). The medicinal plants contained ascorbic acid (12.32-23.10 mg 100 1g), niacin (0.05-1.60 mg 100 1g), riboflavin (0.22- 0.26 mg 100 1g) and thiamin (0.24-0.45 mg 100 1g). The plants are good sources of minerals such as: Ca, P, K, Mg, Na. Fe, Zn, Mn and Cu. These substances may be responsible for the health related properties of the plants, which are based on their antioxidant, anticancer, anti-tumor antiviral, anti-inflammatory and anti-allergic activities. These supports the popular use of G. Kola and A. melegueta in herbal medicine in South Eastern Nigeria.

How to cite this article
D.E. Okwu , 2005. Phytochemicals, Vitamins and Mineral Contents of Two Nigerian Medicinal Plants. International Journal of Molecular Medicine and Advance Sciences, 1: 375-381.

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