Evaluation of nutritional and phytochemical properties of Eucalyptus camaldulensis, Hibiscus sabdariffa and Morinda lucida from Ogun State, Nigeria

This study investigated nutritional and phytochemical properties of three multipurpose savannah plants: Eucalyptus camaldulensis, Hibiscus sabdariffa and Morinda lucida. Proximate, mineral and anti-nutrient contents of leaves, stems and roots of the plants were determined. Data obtained were analysed using Statistical Analysis System (SAS). One way Analysis of Variance (ANOVA) was conducted to determine significant difference between parameters. Means were separated using Duncan’s Multiple Range Test at p < 0.05. Results showed that the nutritional and anti-nutrient contents showed significant difference (p < 0.05) across leaves, stems and roots of the plants. Crude protein (13.83 mg/100g) and total nitrogen (2.21 mg/100g) were significantly (p < 0.05) higher in E. camaldulensis leaves, fat (1.48 mg/100g) and moisture (11.42 mg/100g) in M. lucida leaves while ash (7.66 mg/100g), crude fibre (15.84 mg/100g) and carbohydrate (75.30 mg/100g) were significantly (p < 0.05) higher in H. sabdariffa stems and roots. Potassium (277.71 mg/kg) and calcium (321.55 mg/kg) were significantly higher in M. lucida leaves while higher sodium (51.05 mg/kg) was recorded in H. sabdariffa leaves. Tannins (0.55 mg/100g), oxalate (0.32 mg/100g), phytate (0.39 mg/100g) and trypsin inhibitor (0.33 mg/100g) were significantly higher (p < 0.05) in the roots of the three plants than stems. Flavonoids (0.86 mg/100g), saponins (3.46 mg/100g), steroids (0.58 mg/100g) and anthocyannins (0.15 mg/100g) were significantly higher (p < 0.05) in M. lucida leaves. In conclusion, although nutritional, phytochemical and anti-nutrient contents varied within leaves, stems and roots of the plants but, M. lucida leaves contained highest amounts of mineral and phytochemicals.