Evaluation of the Diverse Nutrients of Lasianthera africana Leaf

Abstract

A proximate analysis was conducted  to evaluate the minerals, vitamins and macro-food molecules of endemic Lasianthera africana leaves in the natural forest of  Nnamdi Azikiwe University, Awka. The results showed relatively low ash (6.40), crude protein (13.83%) and moisture content (9.14%) but high crude fibre (5.37%), fat (2.61%), carbohydrate (62.7%) and Energy Value (329.5k/cal).These suggested that it is an energy giving food source  even though its relatively low protein but high in calcium (143.7mg) and iron (5.94), as well as Vitamins A(294.2±0.1ug/100g) and  C (10.52±0.01mg/100g). The study indicates that leaves of this forest shrub constitutes a good source of carbohydrate, protein, minerals and vitamins that could augment as a source of food condiment for the teeming population particularly in the rural communities, with significant economic and nutritional challenges