The proximate and mineral analyses of Moringa oleifera (Drumstick) which are commonly used as Nutritional and Medicinal plant in Nigeria were carried out on both dry leaf and seed. The proximate analysis recorded the concentrations (in percentage) of seed samples as: Ash (5.00 +0.05), Carbohydrate (18.0 + 0.20), Fat and Oil (40.0 + 0.04), Moisture (7. 00 + 1.0), Protein (9.98 +0.01) and Crude Fibre (20.0 + 0.03). The percentage proximate composition of the leaves was recorded as: Ash (10.0 + 0.05), Moisture (10.0 + 0.30), Protein (1.40 + 0.1), Fat and Oil (20.0 +0.50%), Carbohydrate (23.6 + 0.20%) and Crude Fibre (35.0 + 0.60). The Mineral analysis revealed Calcium concentration of 1.475 x 102+ 0.15mg/l, Chlorine concentration of 2.482 x 102+ 0.01mg/l and Phosphorus concentration of 3.85 + 0.20mg/100g in seed sample whereas the concentration in the leaves recorded calcium (1.151 x 102 + 0.02mg/l), Chlorine (0.319 + 0.07mg/l) and Phosphorus (3.85 + 0.04mg/100g). The result of Proximate and Mineral Composition of Moringa olefera indicates that both seed and leave are nutrient-rich food and should be included in our meal for a balance diet.
Journal Citation
2(5):137-141, GLOBAL ADVANCED RESEARCH JOURAL OF AGRICULTURAL SCIENCE
