Comparative analysis of the proximate and mineral composition of moringa olerifera roots, leaves and seeds obtained in okigwe imo state Nigeria

Abstract

Proximate and mineral compositions were carried out on the leaves, seeds and roots of moringa oleifera obtained from Okigwe, Nigeria. Mineral and proximate compositions were determined using their various methods of analysis. Results of proximate analysis in percentage showed moisture content in the following range; leaves 4.84, seeds 9.56 and roots 6.06, crude protein; leaves 24.94, seeds, 17.94 and roots 12.25, fat content; leaves 11.50, seeds, 12.60 and roots, 2.66 while mineral content still in percentage showed potassium in the roots 0.850, leaves 0.625, seeds 0.950 magnesium; roots 1.64, leaves 1.277 and seeds, 1.094 and calcium; roots 4.22, leaves 2.91 and seeds 2.61. These results showed that for proximate composition, the leaves had higher values followed by the roots and lastly by the seeds for most of the analysis while the mineral value contents showed higher percentages in the roots and the leaves .Even though all the various parts of moringa olerifera are nutritionally valuable the leaves and roots are highly recommended for their higher nutritional values. Citation (APA): Mgbemena, N. M. & Obodo, G. A. (2016). Comparative analysis of the proximate and mineral composition of moringa olerifera roots, leaves and seeds obtained in okigwe imo state Nigeria. Journal of Science, Technology and Environment Informatics, 03(02), 207-212.