ABSTRACT
The aim of this study was to ascertain the proximate composition and phytochemicals contained in the leaves of Gongronema latifolium Benth. Established analytical methods were used to study the proximate composition and phytochemical content of the plant's leaves. High levels of tannins, cardiac glycosides, saponins, and coumarins were found in the aqueous extract of Gongronema latifolium Benth. leaves, according to the qualitative phytochemical screening done in this study. In contrast to the absence of flavonoids, terpenoids, anthraquinones, phlobatannins, and anthocyanins in the aqueous extract, phenol, sterols, and alkaloids were present. In the ethanolic extract, moderate concentrations of tannins, saponins, and cardiac glycosides were also found. There were also alkaloids. But the ethanol extract contained terpenoids, which were missing in the aqueous extract. The ethanol extract was devoid of phenol, sterols, phlobatannins, coumarins, anthraquinones, and anthocyanins. According to the proximate analysis conducted, the fresh leaves of Gongronema latifolium Benth has a high moisture content (78.5± 0.5%). However, the dried leaves contained a moderate moisture content (7.5 ± 0.5%) but a high level of ash (10.5 ± 0.5 %), crude protein (27.25 ± 0.05%), carbohydrate (36±1.3%), crude fat (8.25 ± 0.25%), and crude fiber (10.5 ± 0.5%). The presence and quantity of these secondary metabolites affect Gongronema latifolium Benth's medicinal value.
