PROXIMATE ANALYSIS AND PHYTOCHEMICAL SCREENING OF COLA LEPIDOTA FRUIT

ABSTRACT

Cola lepidota, commonly referred to as the yellow monkey kola,is an indigenous African fruit which holds immense cultural and nutritional importance in southern Nigeria. This study aimed to assess the nutritional and phytochemical composition of the cola lepidota fruits through proximate analysis and phytochemical screening. The results unveiled that cola lepidota is a highly nutritious fruit packed with various beneficial compounds. The proximate analysis indicated a substantial moisture content of approximately 48.36% ± 0.27 and a fiber content of about 41.046% ± 0.68, rendering cola lepidota favorable for digestion and other health aspects. Additionally, the ash content was found to be low, at 4.059% ± 0.18, falling within the recommended range of 0 to 12% for dietary purposes. The phytochemical screening revealed a significant presence of flavonoids, terpenoids, saponins, and reducing sugars in cola lepidota, all of which offer various health benefits. Tannins and steroids were notably absent, likely due to their minimal quantity in the fruit, making them undetectable in the analysis. Furthermore, this research highlighted the presence of a significant amount of ascorbic acid (vitamin C) in cola lepidota, contributing to its health-promoting properties. Although slight variations were observed between our study's findings and previously reported data, these differences can be attributed to variances in the samples utilized in each study. Overall, this research enhances our comprehension of the nutritional advantages of cola lepidota, aiming to encourage its consumption and appreciation.