Pterocarpus santalinoides leaf is rich in nutrients and medicinal

What is it about?

Two cultivars of P santalinoides were analyzed for their nutrient and phytochemical contents. Domestic processing methods to promote carotenoid availability were determined. The leaves were rich in protein (14.0%) and vitamin B6 (73mg/100g). The leaves were also moderate sources of iron (6.2-7.4%), magnesium (42-44%), zinc (1.2%) and potassium (45.0-55.0%). Raw light green Avuo contained the highest amount of folate (vitamin B9). The phenolic contents, cyanogenic glycosides, anthocyanins, and phytates of the two P. santalinoides cultivars were statistically similar (p>0.05). Steroids, oxalate, tannins and alkaloids (7.7%) were higher in the light coloured cultivar (Avuo) while saponins and flavonoids (1.1%) were higher (p <0.5) in the dark green cultivar (Oseleukwu). The α-carotene, trans-β-carotene, and total β-carotene contents of the two P.santaniloides cultivars were statistically similar (P> 0.05). The most predominant peak in the chromatogram of the P. santalinoides was trans-beta-carotene. The nutrient and phytochemical composition of the two cultivars of P. santalinoides indicate that they are good sources of proteins and micronutrients and their phytochemical content suggest that they possess medicinal value.

Featured Image

Photo by Hammaam Hudzaifah on Unsplash

Photo by Hammaam Hudzaifah on Unsplash

Why is it important?

This underutilized green leafy vegetable should be integrated more as a dietary item and efforts should be made to conserve the plant

Perspectives