Evaluation of the Proximate and Phytochemical Compositions of Leaves of Obscure Morning Glory (Ipomoea obscura)

Abstract

This study was conducted to evaluate the proximate and phytochemical composition of leaves of Ipomoea obscura. Analysis
to determine the proximate and phytochemical composition of leaves of Ipomoea obscura was performed using standard
methods. Proximate analysis on leaves of the said vegetable showed that the leaves contain moisture (7.86±0.09%), crude
protein (1.82±0.01%), crude fibre (1.96±0.01%), Ash (1.81±0.01%), carbohydrate (85.6±0.09%) and calorie (357.8±0.29
Kcal/100g). However, quantitative phytochemical screening on same leaves showed that sample contains phytate
(0.9±0.04g/100g), oxalate (0.7±0.0.02 g/100g), phenol (10.2±0.01 g/100g), Saponin (17.8±0.01 g/100g), steroid (135.1±0.02
g/100g), tannin (1.7±0.01 g/100g), alkaloid (150.6±0.01 g/100g), flavonoid (6.7±0.01 g/100g) and cynate (13.5±0.02
g/100g).In conclusion, Although, Ipomoea obscura contains appreciable amount of carbohydrate and calorie which may have
readily dependable alternatives for the rural populace. Its richness in some medicinally important phytochemicals, such as
alkaloid among others should further consolidate its use in traditional medicine for the treatment of certain diseases
ravaging mankind.