Anti-nutritional Factors, Vitamin C and Mineral Compositions of the Root, Stem and Leaf of Ficus exasperata Vahl

Abstract

The demand for organic-based foods, the quest for plant-based growth promoters and antioxidant agents by 
health-conscious individuals are on the increase. Ficus exasperata Vahl is a plant-based herb, used for several 
ailments in Nigeria. It is important to know the anti-nutrients and mineral compositions of the root (FEVR), 
stem (FEVS) and leaves (FEVL) of Ficus exasperata Vahl to ensure their safety for human 
consumption and maximal derived health nutrients. Standard methods of analysis were used to determine 
the mineral contents of (FEVR, FEVS) and anti-nutritional factors of Ficus exasperata Vahl root (FEVR), 
Stem (FEVS) and the leaves (FEVL). The anti-nutrients in the aqueous extract of Ficus exasperata Vahl  
show that the stem (FEVS) has the highest value for phytate and Vitamin C (18.95, 21.31) mg/100 g, 
compared to (16.57, 6.08) mg/100 g Phytate and (6.53, 5.16) mg/100 g Vitamin C for FEVR and FEVL 
respectively. Taninn and Flavonoids were found in trace amounts in the root, stem and leaves. The results of 
mineral analysis shows the presence of some heavy metals like Zinc, Copper and Manganese in the roots 
and stem. This may be from the environment where the tree was planted