Screening of antinutrients in leaves, fruit pulp and seeds of Gishta (Annona spp.) of Ethiopia, North East Africa

Abstract

Graviola or Gishta (Annona spp. of Ethiopia) are generally useful for human consumption were analysed for the presence of potentially harmful chemicals (antinutrients) and for their toxicity. The purpose of the study was to determine whether the Graviola or Gishta (Annona spp. of Ethiopia) leaves, fruit pulp and seed extracts were safe for human consumption. Chemical analysis showed that none of  tested parts contained cyanogenic glycosides, however all the three tested plant materials contained oxalic acid in high concentrations and also  contained negligible amounts of phytic acid, saponins and alkaloids. Tested plant samples also found to inhibit trypsin activity. These chemical analyses were carried out in duplicate.