Phytochemical properties of Ceiba petandra (Kapok tree), Moringa oleifera (Moringa) and Cymbopogon citratus (Lemon grass) collected from a home garden in Igbor, Gwer East, Benue State, Nigeria

Abstract

The need for integration of modern science in the study of medicinal plants is very crucial. Without the application of science, herbal medicine would just remain traditional. The broad objective of the study was to identify the phytochemical properties of these three medicinal plants in order to encourage utilization, conservation and management of these plant species. This research sought to contribute to existing knowledge about the phytochemical constituents and medicinal uses of these plants. The highest concentrations of tannin (11.6%) and flavonoid (10.1%) were found in the leaves of Ceiba petandra. Anthraquinone was not found in any of the plant species investigated. Alkaloid was found only in the leaves of Moringa oleifera with a concentration of 5.4%. Terpenoids were found only in the leaves of Ceiba petandra (4.2%) and in the leaves of Moringa oleifera (3.5%). The least concentration of cyanoglycosides (0.1%) was found in the leaves of Ceiba petandra. It was concluded that leaves of Ceiba petandra, Moringa oleifera and Cymbopogon citratus were the major sources of phytochemicals. The study also revealed that higher quantities of phytochemicals were found in Ceiba petandra leaves when compared with other plant species. This showed that the leaves of Ceiba petandra are highly medicinal. It is recommended that Clinical trials should be conducted on these medicinal plant species to determine their efficacy in the treatment of diseases.