MINERAL COMPOSITION AND PROXIMATE ANALYSIS OF LIMA BEAN (Phaseolus Lunatus)

ABSTRACT

This study focuses on the evaluation of Lima bean (Phaseolus lunatus) seeds obtained from Ekiti State, Nigeria, as a potential source of natural medicine and nutrition. In response to concerns about the limitations of chemically synthesized drugs and the resurgence of various diseases, traditional medicine is being explored as an alternative. This project was aimed at assessing the proximate and mineral compositions of Lima bean seeds. The result of the proximate analysis of Lima bean showed that Lima bean contains 16.08％ Moisture, 1.68％ Ash, 12.70％ Crude fat, 44.97％ Crude Protein, 22.53％ Crude fibre, and 2.04％ Carbohydrates. The mineral analysis of Lima bean showed that Lima bean contains 66.10mg/100g of K, 8.60mg/100g of Mg, 6.21mg/100g of Ca, 0.77mg/100g of Na, 0.20mg/100g of Fe, and 0.02mg/100g of Cu. The results indicate that Lima bean is notably high in protein content but relatively low in carbohydrates. This makes it unique compared to many other bean varieties which have higher carbohydrate content. Additionally, Lima bean is a rich source of potassium, which is essential for protein synthesis and carbohydrate metabolism, making it a potential natural remedy for diabetes. In summary, Lima bean possesses promising nutraceutical qualities, making it a valuable candidate for further research and potential therapeutic applications.