Aim: To compare the phytochemicals and antioxidant activities of stem bark and root extracts of Annona muricata. Methodology: The stem bark and root of Annona muricata were collected, washed, air-dried, ground and each extracted with methanol, ethyl acetate and n-hexane. The extracts were analysed for the presence of phytochemicals. Antioxidant screening was also carried out on the samples. Results: Cardiac glycosides were present in all the extracts of both root and stem bark. Alkaloids were present in moderate abundance in all the extracts except the ethyl acetate stem bark extract. Saponins and tannins were found in methanol extracts of both parts and also in very high abundance but the stem contained higher amount of saponins while alkaloids and tannins were found more in the root. Flavonoids were only found in the ethyl acetate stem bark extract.  Steroids were absent in all the extracts except n-hexane root extract. The root showed greater enzymatic antioxidant activities than the stem bark. The solvent polarity affected the phytochemical found in each extract.  The antioxidant activities of the catalase, superoxidase dismutase and glutathione peroxidase were significantly higher in the root of Annona muricata than in the stem. Conversely, peroxidase showed a significantly higher activity in the stem than in the root. Conclusion: The stem bark and root exhibited good antioxidant properties, so there is need to isolate the compounds responsible for antioxidant property exhibited by the plant parts.

Xylooligosaccharides derived from Xylan, significant component of hemicellulose in lignocellulosic plant biomass, are essential raw materials used in the food, pharmaceutical and agricultural industries. They find application in these industries due to their unique physicochemical properties such as pH stability, growth regulatory ability, and anti-allergic property. In addition, they have been shown to exhibit promising antimicrobial, anti-cancer, antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activities. Xylooligosaccharides convert waste into valuable foods, pharmaceuticals, and agricultural products, promoting health, the economy, and the environment.