Preliminary Studies on Piliostigma thonningii seeds: Proximate analysis, mineral composition and phytochemical screening

Abstract

Qualitative determination of chemical and nutritional composition of Piliostigma thonningii, an underexploited
crop seed in Nigeria, was carried out. Seeds of P. thonningii were found to be rich in crude protein,
carbohydrate, and mineral elements. Mineral analysis of P. thonningii showed the seed as good source of
antioxidant micronutrients such as iron, calcium, selenium, zinc and manganese. The phytochemical
screening of the seed showed the presence of saponins, flavonoids, phenolics, glycosides, anthraquinones as
well as cardiac glycosides while tannins, steroids, phylobatannins and triterpenes were absent. Although the
oil has a very low peroxide value and high iodine value, it cannot be recommended for consumption because
of the low yield as well as its repulsive odour. The seed, however, can serve as a cheap source of protein,
energy, as well as antioxidant micronutrients supplements in both man and animal.