Proximate and Mineral Elements Analysis of Ziziphus mauritiana Fruits

Abstract

The fruits of Ziziphus mauritiana plant were subjected to proximate and mineral elements analysis. The results of the proximate analysis revealed the presences of moisture contents 5.16±0.29mg/100g, ash contents 6.16 ± 0.29mg/100g, crude lipid 62.00 ± 0.50mg/100g, crude fiber 1.67 ± 0.29mg/100g, crude protein 6.18 ± 0.13mg/100g as well as available carbohydrate 83.98 ± 0.46mg/100g in dryweights. The values of the mineral elements analysis conducted were evaluated; Sodium 7.67 ± 0.138mg/100g, potassium 306.67±11.55mg/100g, calcium value obtained were 0.033±0.003mg/100g, Magnesium was recorded as 0.16±0.005mg/100g, while the value of phosphorus was recorded as 1.582±3.34mg/100g in dry weight respectively. The results of the mineral analysis conducted on Ziziphus mauritiana fruits revealed the presence of higher potassium and sodium values while the least value was obtained in calcium. The proximate composition showed the fruits as having higher value of crude protein and lipid contents while the crude fiber had the least value respectively. The high values of potassium and sodium in the fruit make the fruit good source for the formation of bones and teeth more especially in the growing children. Ziziphus mauritiana fruit contains important mineral elements that would possibly improve on the proper metabolic activity and therefore could improve on health standard if properly utilized.