Proximate analysis, phytochemical properties and antifungal activity of ‘miracle plant’, <i>Bryophyllum pinnatum</i> (Lam.) Oken

Abstract

The leaf and root of Bryophyllum pinnatum (Lam.) Oken were evaluated for proximate composition, vitamins, amino acids, phytochemicals, mineral elements, micro-morphology and its antifungal activities on some selected fungal species obtained from diseased Arachis hypogaea seeds. These were assessed following standard procedures. The study showed that the protein, moisture, ash, crude fibre and crude fat contents were higher in the root of B. pinnatum than in the leaves except for carbohydrate. B. pinnatum leaves and roots had water-soluble vitamins (19.45%; 48.22%), fat-soluble vitamins (11.75%; 29.05), essential amino acids (5.324%, 8.318%) and non-essential amino acids (1.189%, 2.355%), respectively. Phytochemicals and mineral concentrations were higher in the roots of B. pinnatum than in the leaves. The micromorphology revealed aniocystic stomatal type, the presence of tannins in the petiole and stem as seen in the vascular bundle and secretory cells while starch grains were seen in the root. Bryophyllum pinnatum leaf extract inhibited Rhizopus stolonifer mycelia growth followed by Aspergillus flavus and Aspergillus niger. The mycelial growth of these fungi ranged from 2.57 – 3.33 cm compared with the control treatment (8.7 cm). These inherent potentials in B. pinnatum could be the reason the plant is recommended for the treatment of various ailments.