Effects of Stage of Growth on Mineral, Proximate and Phytochemical Composition of Moringa Leave Extract

Abstract

The concentration and availability of plant chemicals depend on the age or stage of growth of such plant. Moringa oleifera leave is one of such plant which are rich in mineral, fibre, alkaloids, saponins and tannins. This study seeks to investigate the effect of stage of growth on mineral, proximate and phytochemical composition of Moringa leave extract. A six-week old seedling were purchased and planted. Fresh leaves of Moringa oleifera were harvested at 12, 14, 16,18 and 20 weeks of age, air dry, grind into powder and kept in air tight container. Methanol was used for extraction. Proximate composition, phytochemicals Mineral were determined using the standard procedure. Data obtained were analysed using descriptive statistics and ANOVA. There were no significant differences in all the mineral, phytochemical composition and proximate parameters measured although week 20 had the highest crude protein, ether extract, ash and crude fibre. Alkaloids were significantly higher (250.00mg/g) at week 20 with least alkaloid valve at week 12 (235.56mg/g). Week 20 had the highest saponins (161.33mg/g) with least saponin value at week 12 (153.27mg/g). Tannins were significantly higher (149.78mg/g) at week 20 with least tannins valve at week 12 (132.22mg/g). Calcium at week 20 was significantly higher (800.00mg/g) with least calcium value at week 12 (741.67mg/g). Similar trend was observed for magnesium, sodium, chlorine, potassium, iodine and phosphate. A consistent pattern was observed as the stage of growth increases, the mineral composition and phytochemical increased. Week 20 had the highest proximate, mineral composition and phytochemical.