Phytochemical screening, proximate analysis and determination of mineral nutrients and heavy metals in stem bark of Picralima nitida

Abstract

Plants have been of immense interest to man as food and medicine. Picralima nitida is a native African tree known for its numerous pharmacological properties and use in traditional medicine. This study is aimed at investigating the phytochemical constituents along with the proximate and metallic content of the stem bark of P. nitida. Qualitative phytochemical screening was done using standard methods. Proximate analysis was carried out according to the methods described by the Association of Official Analytical Chemists (AOAC). Mineral nutrients and heavy metal analysis were done using standard spectrophotometric methods. The qualitative phytochemical screening demonstrated the presence of alkaloids, saponins, phenols, terpenoids, carbohydrates, and flavonoids. Proximate analysis showed that the dried powdered stem bark of Picralima nitida is high in total ash, proteins, and lipids with low moisture and crude fiber contents. Assessment of metal composition showed that the sample had several essential and non-essential nutrients, with calcium, potassium and sodium occurring in the highest concentrations. Heavy metals such as lead were detected in very low amounts, while cadmium was not. These findings indicate that the stembarks of Picralima nitida possess significant potential as source of essential minerals and justify its use in herbal medicine.