Analysis of Asparagus africanus (LAM) for some hair growth – stimulating elements

Abstract

 The stem of Asparagus africanus (Lam) was analysed for the presence of iodine and some metals which
 are believed to stimulate hair growth. The ash content of A. africanus was found to be 24.77 ± 0.38g/kg
 (wt of ash/wt of raw sample powder). Analysis by atomic absorption spectroscopy (AAS) showed that K,
 Zn, Fe, Cr, Mg and Mn were found to be present, while the sodium fusion test revealed the absence of
 iodine.