Proximate and Mineral Composition of Nsala Bakala (Dracaena camerooniana Baker) Leaves, Stems and Roots from Nzenze Forest in Uíge Province, Angola

Abstract

The aim of the present work was to perform nutritional analysis of Dracaena camerooniana Baker. Nutrient determination was carried out according to standard methods. The nutritional profile of the leaves, roots and stems of D. camerooniana showed that these organs are rich in fibre (14.20-53.65%), proteins (4.47-18.58%), lipids (1.53-5.42%) carbohydrates (23.67-70.94%), ash (2.17-15.59%) and mineral elements, namely, K (535.07-1690.00 mg/100 g), Ca (315.87-1459.97 mg/100 g), Mg (95.41-498.83 mg/100 g), P (76.72-149.56 mg/100 g), Na (105.83-113.60 mg/100 g), Se (75.87-128.51 mg/100 g), Fe (40.88-228.30 mg/100 g), Mn (7.41-11.39 mg/100 g), Zn (2.94-5.83 g/100 g), Cu (2.30-2.80 mg/100 g), and Co (0.65-2.80 mg/100 g) The different levels of nutrient contents observed in the analyzed organs of D. camerooniana would be attributed to the accumulative capacities of the plant organs. It is therefore recommended (desirable) that further studies be conducted to determine the content of anti-nutritional factors in this plant on the one hand and to evaluate its pharmaco-biological properties on the other. Domestication of the plant should be done to ensure its conservation with the support of local farmers. Thus, the use of biotechnology would allow the availability of healthy plant material for both present and future generations.