Determination of Proximate Composition and Phytochemical Constituents of Corchorus oliterious (Ewudu) Harvested in Ugep, Cross River State

Aims: To Determine the proximate composition and phytochemicals constituents of Corchorus olitorious leaves harvested in ugep, Cross River State. The leaves were purchased locally. Methodology: The leaves were washed to remove sand and other particles like pieces of wood which may act as contaminants, thereafter the leaves were dried to a certain temperature. The dried leaves were blended into powder using a standard method of AOAC (2005) (Association of analytical chemist). Evaluation of Corchorus Oliterous for proximate and phytochemical composition were conducted using standard methods.

Results: The result obtained on the proximate composition of Corchorus Oliterious revealed the following; Moisture (84.40±0.10 mg/100g), Ash (2.90±0.10 mg/100g), Protein (4.66±0.02 mg/100g), Fibre (2.70±0.10 mg/100g), Fat (4.30±0.10 mg/100g) and Carbohydrate (85.10±0.02 mg/100g). The phytochemical analysis of the leaf extracts of Corchorus olitorious which was done both Qualitatively and quantitatively revealed the presence of alkaloids (2.40±0.10 mg/100g), glycoside (2.53±0.01 mg/100g), saponins (3.32±0.02 mg/100g), Tannins (0.47±0.01 mg/100g), flavonoid (6.30±0.10 mg/100g), reducing compounds (4.60±0.02 mg/100g) and polyphenols (6.50±0.02 mg/100g).

Conclusion: the leafy vegetables of this plant if consume in sufficient amount would contribute greatly to the nutritional requirement for human health.