ANALYSIS ON PHYTOCHEMICAL, PROXIMATE AND MINERAL CONTENTS OF BITTER LEAF (VERNONIA AMYGDALINA) AND ITS POTENCY IN BLOOD SUGAR REDUCTION

Abstract

This study investigates the phytochemical, mineral and nutritional composition of bitter leaf (Vernonia amygdalina) and its potency in blood sugar reduction. Sample collection and preparation was carried out using the method prescribed by association of analytical chemist (AOAC), (2016). Phytochemical contents of bitter leaf was analyzed using Harborne JB., (1973) method. The study revealed the presence of alkaloids (8.94 mg/kg), flavonoids (0.98 mg/kg), saponins (26.32 mg/kg), tannins (12.00 mg/kg), phenols (20.06 mg/kg), steroids (19.33 mg/kg), and glycosides (4.50 mg/kg). proximate analysis carried out on bitter leaf using standard laboratory method revealed the presence of carbohydrate (37.10 ± 1.60 mg/100g), crude protein (28.10 ± 1.30mg/100g), ash content (9.30 ± 0.23 mg/100g), crude fiber (11.50 ± 0.40 mg/100g), fats (5.45 ± 0.28 mg/100g) and moisture content (8.40 ± 0.04 mg/100g). Also mineral composition analyzed on bitter leaf revealed the presence of Iron (15.00 mg/100g), phosphorous (60.20 mg/100g), Copper (5.50 mg/100g), zinc (8.90 mg/100g), magnesium (85.70 mg/100g), potassium (61.00 mg/100g), and Calcium (65.50 mg/100g). The study proved bitter leaf rich in phytochemicals, minerals and nutritional components essential for human health and blood sugar reduction. The bioactive compounds present in bitter leaf such as saponins, phenols and steroids plays significant role in blood sugar reduction by protecting pancreatic cells while alkaloids enhance insulin sensitivity. Magnesium enhances the activity of insulin thereby reducing blood sugar. These reveals that bitter leaf (V. amygdalina) has effective potentials needed for blood sugar reduction. Hence further investigation will reveal hypoglycemic effects as well as the cytotoxic effects induced by V. amygdalina extract.