Unraveling the Bioherbicidal Potential, Elemental Analysis and Nutritional Evaluation of Crataeva adansonii DC Leaf and Bark

Abstract

There is an urgent need to explore and utilize naturally occurring products for combating harmful agricultural and public health issues. Plant-derived substances can exhibit significant results with lesser side effects, and they are easily accessible and more economical than their synthetic alternatives. This study aims to conduct a phytotoxic study of ethanolic extract of Crataeva adansonii DC. leaf and stem bark for assessment of its bioherbicidal potential. Elemental and nutritional analysis of the plant parts was also done to accentuate this plant's use in the nutritional and agricultural industry. Elemental analysis of C. adansonii stem bark and leaf was assessed through atomic absorption spectrophotometry to detect ten essential macro and microelements, including Na, Ca, Co, Cd, Cu, Mn, Zn, Pb, Ni, and Fe. In the bark part, the highest percentage of relative standard deviation was observed for Co, Cd, and Na, which is 175.6, 22.86, and 5.58%, respectively. The leaf part's elemental analysis revealed the highest percentage of R.S.D. for Co, Mn, and Pb, which is 20, 9, and 4.44%, respectively. Imperative nutritional aspects of the proposed plant extracts were determined, including percentages of carbohydrates, proteins, fats, fiber, ash, and moisture. The bioherbicidal potential of the proposed plant was evaluated through the Lemna minor model of phytotoxicity. C. adansonii is a source of several essential macro and micronutrients. A nutritional value analysis of this plant offers its use as a food source. Bioherbicidal/phytotoxic activity revealed significant results in the form of dose-dependent inhibition of frond growth. Ethanolic extract of C. adansonii exhibited 30% inhibition at 1000 (il concentration, and at the same concentration, the bark extract inhibited the frond growth by 40%. The pharmacognostic evaluation of this medicinal drug will be supportive in the detection of adulteration and quality control. Due to the herbicidal potential, it can be used in the agricultural industry. For future studies, it is suggested to understand the mode of action of its active compounds through future studies.