Proximate Composition, Phytochemical and Mineral Analysis of the Fruits of Ficus Capensis

Abstract

Proximate, phytochemical and mineral compositions of Ficus capensis fruit were determined using standard methods. Phytochemical screening revealed the presence of tannins, terpenoids, alkaloids, flavonoids, cardiac glycosides, phenol, phytate, oxalate and heamaglutin. The proximate analysis of the fruits of Ficus capensis yielded: moisture (33.17%), dry matter (66.29%), ash (7.66%), crude protein (1.40%), crude fat (4.47%), crude fiber (3.18%) and total carbohydrate (49.58%). Mineral analysis showed that the fruit samples yielded 40.64mg/100g calcium, 59.99mg/100g magnesium, 45.05mg/100g potassium, 6.19mg/100g sodium, 7.28:1 for potassium to sodium ratio, 25.30mg/100g iron, 1.25mg/100g copper, and 2.90mg/100g manganese. These results showed that the fruit of Ficus capenses was rich in bio active substances, ash, crude fiber, total carbohydrate and mineral nutrients and suggest its use as an alternative source of food and medicinal formulation for human consumption.