Study on phytochemical availability, variability and density of Moringa oleifera

Abstract

The increasing awareness of the presence of bioactive components in Moringa oleifera plant and their increasing application in management of various disease conditions has prompted the need for further study and validation. Using various quantitative and qualitative methods with spectroscopic determination we evaluated the presence of alkaloids, tannins, saponins, flavonoids, glycosides, terpenoids and phenol. There was a preponderance of alkaloids (13.3%). Result of triplicate proximate analysis show 87.66% Dry matter and 89.48% Nitrogen free extracts. The highest concentration 35.78 mg/L and 30.45 mg/L were obtained for calcium and sodium respectively. Other components identified were moisture, Ash, Protein, lipids and fibre at various concentration. It is concluded that the components of phytochemicals present in Moringa oleifera confer on it the ability to ameliorate some disease condition and enhance health.