









































Pa
ge

 
1



Pa
ge

 
1

American Journal of  
Chemistry and Pharmacy (AJCP)

Nutritional and Phytochemical Screening of  Raw and Boiled Hypocotyls 
of  African Fan Palm (Borassus aethiopum)

Benjamin.  I.1*, Rose. E. Kukwa1, Teghtegh. F. Samoh2, Terhile. M.  Iortile1, Tor. P.  Ngunoon3, 
   John. O. Ajegi4, Solomon D. Igbawase1

Volume 1 Issue 1, Year 2022
ISSN: 2834-0116 (Online)

DOI: https://doi.org/10.54536/ajcp.v1i1.351
https://journals.e-palli.com/home/index.php/ajcp

Article Information ABSTRACT

Received: June 25, 2022

Accepted: July 03, 2022

Published: July 06, 2022

The proximate analysis, phytochemical screening and mineral properties of  palmyra palm 
(Borassus aethiopum) were evaluated on the dried powder of  the raw and boiled hypocotyl. 
The results obtained showed that the moisture, ash, fat/lipid content, crude fibre, protein 
and carbohydrates of  the hypocotyl had values at (7.17, 3.00, 3.35, 2.63, 11.25, 72.60 and 
9.33, 2.67, 2.80, 4.03, 10.00 and 72.57) %.  The Phytochemical analysis performed were 
Alkaloids (76.00 and 43.47) %, cyanogenic derivative (78.84% and 48.60%), tannins (19.97 
and 19.96)%, and Phytate (1.19 and 0.07). The mineral composition; potassium, calcium, 
zinc and iron was determined using Atomic Absorption Spectrometry with values 633.70 
and 452.27 mg/100 g, 148.65 and 120.78 mg/100g, 1.36 and 2.13 mg/100 g, 2.05 and 3.24 
mg/100 g respectively.  Furthermore, the result of  the t-test analysis carried out showed 
that there is a significant difference between the raw and boiled sample of  Palmyra palm. 
The quantitative phytochemical analysis of  the Borassus aethiopum hypocotyls revealed a good 
percentage of  phytochemicals such as alkaloids, Saponin, flavonoids, steroids, cyanogenic 
derivatives, tannins and phytate and hence can be used in pharmaceutical and medical sci-
ence to produce drugs and supplements that can prevent diseases.

Keywords
Anti-nutrients, Borassus 
aethiopum, Mineral, 
Phytochemicals, Proximate

1 Department of  Chemistry, Benue State University, Makurdi, Nigeria.
2 Departments of  Chemistry, University of  Ilorin, Ilorin, Kwara State, Nigeria.
3 Departments of  Chemistry, Joseph   Sarwuan   Tarka University, Makurdi, Nigeria.
4 College of  Education Oju, Benue   State, Nigeria.
* Corresponding author’s e-mail: ishwahlizer@gmail.com 

INTRODUCTION
The significance of  plants cannot be overemphasized 
in our day-to-day lives as they are the major source of  
oxygen needed by humans and other animals for breath 
and existence, they serve as a means of  livelihood to many 
house hoods, provide raw materials for many industrial 
products such as pulp which is used to produce paper and 
other raw materials. Other organic extracts such as dyes, 
pesticides and drugs are gotten from plants (Benjamin et 
al, 2022).
Food is no doubt the most basic necessity for one to 
effectively function in his ecosystem. It is a substance that 
often composed of  carbohydrates, lipids, proteins, vitamins 
and water which are eaten or drunk by animals or humans 
for nutrition (Benjamin et al, 2022). The constituent in 
food contains important chemical substances known as 
nutrients. These are ingested, digested, absorbed and 
circulated in the blood streams to feed the cells which 
constitute the body building blocks and consequently, the 
increase in body resistance to diseases and faster recovery 
of  illnesses is witnessed (Anhwange et al, 2020). Most 
of  the food consumed by humans are sourced from 
plants and animals, the former has been grouped into; 
leafy vegetables, seeds, tubers and fruit (Karou et al, 
2006). There are over 30,000 known edible plants, from 
which only 300 were domesticated accounting for more 
than 95% of  the required human plant food (Kamanzy 
et al, 2002). The part of  plant responsible for bearing 
of  seeds is known as fruit and is considered a healthy 
food supplement because it composed of  an appreciable 
amount of  water, carbohydrates, lipids, proteins, vitamins 
and minerals such as calcium, magnesium, potassium, 
sodium, zinc, copper and iron (Edeoga et al, 2005). The 

food which humans depend on wholly for survival is 
derived from primary metabolites.  
These foods when eaten raw may however contain 
secondary metabolites such as tannins, terpenes, 
alkaloids, flavonoids just to mention but a few which 
may be deleterious to health. African fan palm shoots 
are beneficial to man as they contain carbohydrates for 
energy, proteins for buildup of  body tissues, vitamin 
A which improves night vision, vitamin B1[thiamine] 
which converts sugars and starches into energy, vitamin 
B2[riboflavin]  which enables utilization of  fats, proteins 
and sugars ,vitamin B6 which aid the metabolism of  
protein, carbohydrates and fats and as well controls the 
body cholesterol level, vitamin E which protects the body 
store of  vitamin A, tissues and fats from destructive 
oxidation, they also contain folate and pantothemic 
acids. Minerals found in African Fan palm shoots include 
calcium, magnesium, phosphorus, potassium, sodium, 
zinc, copper, manganese, selenium and iron. However, 
the amount of  carbohydrate present in these shoots do 
not amount to more than 3-4 grams per 100grams serving 
which if  exceeded would have led to a high calorie content 
detrimental to health. Apart from primitively consuming 
the shoots as food, they help boost the immune system, 
they are anti-cancer fighting, have anti-inflammatory 
properties, they are heart friendly and help in developing 
a healthy weight loss and contain a negligible amount of  
fat. Shoots also contain a significant amount of  dietary 
fiber (Amos, S et al, 2001 & Adamu, B. et al, 2012)   

LITERATURE REVIEW
Palmyra palm (Borassus aethiopum) is a non timber forest 
product (NTFP). It belongs to the family Arecaceae.  It is 

https://doi.org/10.54536/ajcp.v1i1.351
https://journals.e-palli.com/home/index.php/ajcp
mailto:ishwahlizer%40gmail.com%20?subject=


Pa
ge

 
2

https://journals.e-palli.com/home/index.php/ajcp

Am. J. Chem. Pharm. 1(1) 1-10, 2022

a multipurpose species native to the semiarid zones and 
sub humid tropical regions of  Africa, in the South of  Asia, 
Islands of  the Pacific and the Indian Ocean. Palmyra-
palm (Borassus aethiopum) is a tropical plant with multiple 
uses and the hypocotyl is appreciated by the population in 
food and in traditional medicine. In addition all parts of  
this plant such as the stem, roots, fruits, leaves, hypocotyl, 
petioles, seeds and sap are a source of  richness for rural 
populations (Dewole, et al, 2013). Ethno botanical survey 
revealed the aphrodisiac properties of  Borassus aethiopum 
as well as anti-oxidant, analgesic and anti-inflammatory 
properties of  this plant which contribute immensely to 
the treatment of  various ailments (Dewole, et al, 2013).
Borassus aethiopum is an evergreen tree growing to 20 m 
(65 ft) by 5 m (16 ft) at a slow rate. It is hardy to zone. 
The flowers are pollinated by insects. The plant is not 
self-fertile and it is noted for attracting wildlife. It is also 
suitable for: light (sandy), medium (loamy) and heavy 
(clay) soils, it prefers well-drained soil and can grow in 
nutritionally poor soil. It requires a suitable pH of  acid, 
neutral and basic soils growing in very acidic and alkaline 
soils. Borassus aethiopum does not grow in shade hence it 
prefers moist soil and can tolerate drought.
Boiled hypocotyl of  Borassus aethiopum (Palmyra palm) 
are widely used in most areas in Benue state; this is 
carried around by vendors who use it as a source of  
income in their daily lives. As a result of  its high rate of  
consumption mostly by the old and little by the young 
in the Benue valley, due to its medicinal value and health 
implications it is of  utmost importance scientifically to 
investigate and identify the bioactive constituents present 
in this plant (Kolawole, S.E. & Obueh, H.O. (2013).). 
The Borassus aethiopum plant in the Benue communities is 
recognized and kept within the ecosystem for not only 
its social importance but also for its economic value. The 
Borassus aethiopum mart is commonly known as the African 
Fan Palm, Palmyra palm, Toddy palm in English, Akuu 
(kuugh) in Tiv, Odoo in Idoma, Muruchi in Hausa and 
kolabula by the Benin people. The different part of  this 
plant such as the roots, petioles, sap, fruits, seeds, final 
buds, shoots, wood and the resin are important sources 
of  income for the rural communities especially for the 
women (Gbesso F et al, 2013). Numerous ways of  the 
fruit consumption are known. The fruit can be directly 
boiled for eating or germinated before cooking. However, 
the hypocotyls obtained after fruit germination is the 
best-selling derivative product consumed in various cities 
in Benue state and Nigeria as a whole, and also in many 
countries like Benin, Senegal, and Burkina Faso etc. In 
Benin the hypocotyl is mostly appreciated by the rural 
and urban populations especially by the department of  
Zou-colliness and still remains the centre of  production 
and distribution (Kolawole, Gbesso F et al, 2013 & Waziri 
et al, 2010).
Research has revealed that about 90% of  the households 
in Central Benin consume the products of  Borassus 
aethiopum with the hypocotyl inclusive. The high level of  

consumption explains the interest of  the hypocotyl in 
the diet of  the local population. Besides its use in the 
diet, the hypocotyl is also renowned for its medicinal 
properties. An ethno botanic investigation revealed the 
aphrodisiac properties of  the hypocotyls which is use in 
the treatment of  erectile dysfunction in men (Waziri et 
al, 2010). Hypocotyls are most often consumed boiled or 
sometimes smoked. The hypocotyls are mostly vended in 
streets of  Benue state, Benin and also certain streets in 
various states in Nigeria.
Ornamentally, the leaves of  the palm have served the 
basketry and mat industries. The trunk has been used 
in constructing bridges, and telegraphic poles due to its 
tough and termite resistant nature. The roots, leaves, 
flowers and fruits are used for multiple purposes such 
as nutrition agents, treatment for sexually transmitted 
diseases (e.g., beign herpes), cutaneous fungal infections, 
and viral infections particularly measles (Waziri et al, 
2010, Gbesso et al, 2016). The flowers are used to 
treat impetigo, whereas the roots are used for asthma 
treatment. The sap of  Borassus aethiopum is usually boiled 
immediately after extraction to make sugar or fermented 
to produce an alcoholic beverage. Also, the mature hard 
nuts are grounded and used in porridge. Other studies 
have revealed that the young shoot of  the germinating 
fruit of  Borassus aethiopum extract contain an anabolic 
effect of  androgens; therefore, supporting its local use 
as an aphrodisiac. Furthermore, the methanolic seed 
coat of  Borassus aethiopum has been shown to possess free 
radical scavenging action and its leaves have an effective 
anthelmintic activity against Indian adult earth worms.  
The young shoots of  this plant are rich in starch and fibre, 
which aids in the control of  various ailments especially 
diabetes. It is believed that the regular consumption of  the 
flour of  this plant increase body strength, reduce hunger 
and the incorporation of  it in other foods would positively 
reduce malnutrition. However, due to the presence of  
bitter compounds (steroid and Saponin) has limited its 
consumption rate. Owing to the presence of  bitterness 
and inadequate supplies of  starch and fibre, research to 
the food properties and the possible use of  starch and 
fibre from economic, under-utilized fibre rich food plants 
based has become of  expected attention(Sakande. J et al, 
2012).

MATERIALS AND METHODS
Study Area
The research was conducted in Makurdi, town the Benue 
State capital.  The town is located at latitude 7o 38’N -   
7o 50’N and longitude     8o 24’E -   8o 38’N. It is situated   
in the Benue valley in the North   Central Nigeria
Sample Collection and Identification
Fresh samples of  raw and boiled Palmyra palm 
hypocotyls were obtained from Ugba market in Logo 
Local Government Area of  Benue state and were taken 
to Department of  Biology Science of  the Benue State 
University Makurdi for Identification and authentification.

https://journals.e-palli.com/home/index.php/ajcp


Pa
ge

 
3

https://journals.e-palli.com/home/index.php/ajcp

Am. J. Chem. Pharm. 1(1) 1-10, 2022

Sample Preparation
Dirt’s and other extraneous materials were removed from 
the hypocotyls with a stainless steel knife. The hypocotyls 
were washed, chopped into pieces and dried under shade 
and thereafter reduced to powdered form using mortar 
and pestle and blended with an electronic blender.

Sample Digestion
5 g of  the hypocotyl powder was weighed into a 250 mL 
beaker. The sample was then digested with 200 ml of  
distilled water with 1 mL of  HNO3and 2 mL of  HCl 
added. This was then heated to boil after which it was 
filtered. The digested sample was then stored in a 100 mL 
volumetric flask prior to analysis with AAS.

Determination of  Mineral Contents
Potassium, Calcium, Magnesium, Zinc, Iron, Copper and 
Manganese were analyzed after digestion with HNO3 
and HCl. This was done by transferring the digested 
samples into a 60 ml sample bottle after which the 
Atomic Absorption Spectrophotometer (model PG 990) 
with appropriate hollow cathode lamps was used for the 
elemental analysis.

Determination of  Proximate Composition
Moisture Content
Empty clean crucible dishes were dried in the oven at 
a temperature of  105ºC for 30 minutes and cooled for 
10 minutes in a desiccator. 2 g of  the samples (raw and 
boiled hypocotyl) were weighed and put in the dishes and 
heated for 3 hours at a temperature of  105ºC (Sakande. 
J et al, 2012). The dishes were then removed from the 
oven, cooled in a desiccator and weighed. The moisture 
content was calculated using the formula below:

Ash Content
The ash content was estimated by complete incineration. 
5 g of  both raw and boiled hypocotyl samples were 
weighed in to a pre-heated and cooled crucible and was 
incinerated in a muffle furnace at 600°C for 3 hours 
(Sakande. J et al, 2012). The ash was then cooled in a 
desiccator and weighed. The ash content was determined 
using;

Crude Fibre
Exactly 5 g of  the powdered sample were weighed and 
placed in 500mL conical flask containing 200 cm3 of  
1.25% H2SO4 which was boiled gently for 30 minutes. 
The content was filtered and the residue was scrapped 
back into the flask with a spatula. 200 cm3of  1.25% 
NaOH was added and allowed to boil gently for 30 
minutes. The content was then filtered and washed 
thoroughly with hot distilled water. The precipitate was 
rinsed once with 10% HCl and twice with ethanol. The 
content was then allowed to dry and the residue scraped 

into a weighed crucible and dried overnight at 105ºC in 
hot oven. It was then cooled in a desiccator. The sample 
was heated again at 500ºC for 2 hours in a furnace. It was 
finally cooled in a desiccator and weighed (Sakande. J et 
al, 2012).
The percentage of  crude fibre was calculated using the 
equation below:

Crude Fat
Round bottom flask for each sample was washed and 
oven dried and their respective weights taken with that of  
the boiling chips.
The lipid content was then determined according to the 
Soxhlet method using hexane as a solvent (Ahmed. A, 
el al, 2010)..10g of  flour from each sample was weighed 
and inserted into a Soxhlet extraction cartridge (thimble). 
The assembly was then placed in the extractor, where 
150 ml of  hexane was added. It was then allowed to heat 
for 3 hrs after which the hexane was collected. The fat 
extracted was then put in a water bath at 68oC to enable 
complete escape of  hexane. This was then followed 
with oven drying for 30 minutes and the weight of  the 
round bottom flask with the fats extracted measured. 
The amount of  lipid extracted was obtained from the 
difference between the weights of  the flask with the anti-
bumping agents before extraction and the weight after 
extraction.
The crude fat content was calculated using the equation 
below;

Crude Proteins
About1 g of  the sample was weighed and 7.5 g of  Kjeldahl 
catalyst was weighed into a Kjeldahl digestion flask and 20 
mL of  Sulphuric acid was added. The content in the flask 
was then heated in the Kjeldahl digestion flask until a clear 
blue coloration was formed, which showed that digestion 
was complete. The flask was then cooled and the content 
diluted with 250mL of  distilled water and 70 mL of  50% 
NaOH was then added. The content was then distilled 
using Kjeldahl distilled apparatus. The distillate was then 
received into a flask containing 50 mL of  4% boric acid 
solution and Bromcresol Green solution indicators after 
distillation, 150 mL of  the distillate collected was titrated 
against 0.1 MHCl to the end point (Ahmed. A, el al, 
2010). This is calculated with the equation given below;

% N = percentage of  nitrogen
S = titre value of  sample
B = titre value of  blank
M = molarity of  HCl
crudeprotein=% N×6.25

Carbohydrate
The carbohydrate content was determined using the 
differential method (Ahmed. A, el al, 2010). According to 

https://journals.e-palli.com/home/index.php/ajcp


Pa
ge

 
4

https://journals.e-palli.com/home/index.php/ajcp

Am. J. Chem. Pharm. 1(1) 1-10, 2022

the principle of  this method, the sample consists essentially 
of  water, minerals, proteins, fats, and carbohydrates. The 
content of  carbohydrates is determined by reduction 
according to the following formula:
Carbohydrate (%) = 100 – (Protein + Fat + Fibre + 
Ash + Moisture)...……….3.5

Quantification of  Phytochemicals
These hypocotyls were pulverized and used for the 

preparation of  the other extracts, methanol and aqueous 
were obtained by successive extractions with solvents, 
according to the polarity level. 

Determination of  Alkaloids
Exactly  2 g of  the was weighed and added into a 250 
mL beaker and 100 mL of  10% acetic acid in methanol 
was added and covered with aluminum foil and allowed 
to stand for 4 hours. After which the solution was 
filtered using a Whatman filter paper (No: 125). 12 mL 
of  ammonium hydroxide solution was then added to the 
filtrate and allowed to cool. The precipitate was dried in 
the oven at 60ºC and reweighed to determine the weight 
of  the alkaloid (Ahmed. A, el al, 2010).

Determination of  Steroids
This was determined according to (Akinniyi. J.A et al, 
2010) without modification.  2 g of  the methanol extract 
of  the samples were macerated with 50 ml of  chloroform 
for 24 hours. It was then filtered and evaporated. The 
dried masses were then combined to give the chloroform 
extract. 

Determination of  Saponin
About 1.40 g of  the powdered sample was added into a 
conical flask and 150mL of  20% aqueous ethanol added. 
The samples were heated over a hot water bath for 5 hours 
with continuous stirring at 50ºC. The solution was filtered 
and the residue re-extracted with 200 mL of20% ethanol. 
The combined extract was reduced to 40 mL over water 
bath at 90ºC. The concentrate was transferred into a 250 
mL separatory funnel and 20 mL of  diethyl ether added 
and shaken vigorously. The aqueous layer was recovered 
while the ether layer discarded. The purification process 
was repeated. Furthermore, 60 mL of  n-butanol was 
added and washed thrice with 10 mL of  5% aqueous 
sodium chloride. The remaining solution was then heated 
in a water bath. After evaporation the sample was dried in 
the oven to a constant weight in a measured crucible. The 
Saponin content was calculated using standard formulae.

volume of  3 mL of  the filtrate, (sample) standard tannic 
acid solution and distilled water was added into the test 
tubes, labeled sample standard and blank respectively. 1.0 
of  Folin-Denis reagent was added to all the test tubes 
followed by 2.5 mL of  saturated sodium bicarbonate 
solution which was then added and allowed to incubate 
at room temperature for 120 minutes. The absorbance of  
the sample and the standard was read against the blank 
at 490nm.
The percentage of  tannin is calculated thus:

Where:  
AT = Absorbance of  the test sample
AS = Absorbance of  the standard solution
C = Concentration of  standard solution
W = Weight of  the sample used
Vf  = Total volume of  the extract
Va = Volume of  the extract analyzed

Determination of  Flavonoids
Exactly2.5 g of  the samples were weighed into a 250 mL 
beaker and 50 mL of  80 % aqueous methanol was added, 
covered with a filter paper and allowed to stand for 24 h, 
at ambient conditions. The supernatant was discarded so 
that the residue at the bottom remains. 50 mL of  ethanol 
was added to the residue; it was covered with a filter paper 
and allowed to stand for 24 h, at ambient condition. The 
mixture was filtered into a conical flask using a Whatman 
filter paper (No 12, 125 mm). The procedure was 
repeated two times with the same sample and the filtrate 
combined. Empty crucibles were weighed and their 
weight recorded. The filtrates were transferred into the 
crucible and evaporated to dryness over a water bath. The 
crucible was cooled in a desiccator to a constant weight. 
The percentage of  flavonoids was estimated as:

Determination of  Tannins
About 2 g of  the sample was weighed and added into test 
tubes. 15 mL of  distilled water was added and stirred at 
10 minute interval for 1 hour and then filtered. A total 

Determination of  Cyanogenic Derivatives
Exactly 1.0 g of  the sample was weighed into a 250 mL 
round bottom flask and 200 mL of  distilled water was 
added and the mixture allowed to stand for 2 h. 1 mL 
of  tannic acid was added into the mixture and distilled 
into a 250 mL conical flask containing 20 mL of  2.5 % 
NaOH. 100 mL of  the distillate was measured into a 250 
mL conical flask and 8 mL of  6 M NH4OH and 2 mL of  
5 % KI was added. The mixture was titrated with 0.02 M 
AgNO3from a micro-burette against a black background 
to the end-point marked by permanent turbidity. The 
amount of  cyanogenic glycoside was estimated as:

Where titre value = volume of  AgNO3 used, extract 
volume = 100 mL, aliquot volume = 110 mL, weight of  
sample = 1 g and conversion factor = 1.08. 

Phytate Determination

https://journals.e-palli.com/home/index.php/ajcp


Pa
ge

 
5

https://journals.e-palli.com/home/index.php/ajcp

Am. J. Chem. Pharm. 1(1) 1-10, 2022

Table 1: Mineral composition of  raw and boiled 
hypocotyl of  Borassus aethiopum
Mineral Raw (mg/100 g) Boiled (mg/100 g)
Potassium 633.70 ± 0.021 452.27 ± 0.021
Sodium 43.54 ± 0.021 40.16 ± 0.000
Zinc             1.36 ± 0.007 2.13 ± 0.028
Magnesium   71.54 ± 0.021 63.25 ± 0.007
Manganese    63.31 ± 0.078 61.49 ± 0.014
Calcium           148.65 ± 0.000                                  120.78 ± 0.007
Iron                   2.05 ± 0.000                                        3.24 ± 0.021
Values are mean duplicate ± S.D determination.

Table 2: Quantitative Phytochemical contents of  raw 
and boiled hypocotyl of  Borassus aethiopum
Parameter Raw (%) Boiled (%)  
Flavonoid 14.40 ± 0.000   9.00 ± 0.848
Alkaloids 76.00 ± 1.131 43.47 ± 0.000
Tannins 19.97 ± 0.000 19.96 ± 0.000
Saponins 17.85 ± 3.040 6.00 ± 0.000
Steroids 6.00 ± 0.353 5.25 ± 0.707
Cyanogenicderivatives 78.84 ± 0.901 48.60 ± 0.708
Phytates                1.19 ± 0.077 0.07 ± 0.021
Values are mean duplicate of  ± S.D determination

Table 3: Proximate composition of  raw and boiled 
hypocotyl of  Borassus aethiopum
Component Raw (%) Boiled (%)  
Moisture 7.17 ± 0.763 9.33 ± 2.254
Ash 3.00 ± 0.800 2.67 ± 2.193
Crude Fat 3.35 ± 1.62                                                           2.80 ± 2.828
Protein 4.03 ± 0.247 2.63 ± 0.247
Crude Fibre 11.25 ± 1.060 10.00 ± 1.414
Carbohydrate 71.20± 0.000 72.57 ± 0.000
Values are average duplicate of  S.D determination. 

The method used was that of  (Ahmed. A, el al, 2010, & 
Akinniyi. J.A et al, 2010) with slight modification. 0.2 g of  
the samples was weighed into 250 mL conical flask. This 
was then soaked in 100 mL of  20% HCl for 3 hours, the 
samples were then filtered and 50 mL of  the filtrates was 
placed in a 250 mL beaker and 100 mL distilled added 
to the samples. 10 mL of  0.3% ammonium thiocyanate 
solution was added as indicator and titrated with standard 
iron (III) chloride solution which contained 0.00195 g 
iron per 1 mL.
It was then calculated as;

Statistical Analysis
Data were analyzed using t-test analysis which was carried 
out on 95% confidence level and the probability of  t= 
0.05 obtained values at 0.509, 0.007 and 2.64 showed 
that there is a significant difference between the raw and 
boiled sample of  the Palmyra palm hypocotyl. 

RESULTS AND DISCUSSION
The results of  the mineral, proximate and phytochemical 
screening of  Palmyra palm hypocotyls (Borassus aethiopum) 
is presented Table 1, 2 and 3 respectively.

DISCUSSION
Mineral Content
Potassium
The values of  potassium obtained in this study ranges 
from 633.70 ± 0.021 mg/ 100g and 452.27 ± 0.021 
mg/ 100 g this is greater than (Akinniyi. J.A et al, 2010) 
which show no concentration of  potassium at all. The 
values reported were greater than that of  (Sastry. N.Y 
et al, 2012). at 236.7 mg. it could be seen from table 1 
that, all the minerals analyzed potassium have the highest 
concentration than all the other minerals. Potassium is 
both a mineral and an electrolyte. It aids the muscle to 
work including the muscles that control breathing and 
heart beat. Potassium is mostly gotten from the food we 
eat and the excess potassium that is not required by the 
body is removed from the blood by the kidney. Potassium 
has a daily dietary intake of  3500-4700 mg(Sastry. N.Y et 
al, 2012).

Sodium
The values of  Sodium obtained for the raw and boiled 
sample of  Palmyra palm as shown in table 1 ranges from 
43.54 ± 0.021 and 40.16 ± 0.00 mg/100 g. This result 
shows that there is no much variation in the sodium 
content of  the raw hypocotyls from the boiled hypocotyls 
with a difference of  3.38 mg/ 100 g. This shows a higher 
yield of  the sodium mineral as compared to (Jamkhande 
et al, 2014) which shows an average value of  1.45 ± 
0.80 mg/ 100 g. These differences could be as a result 
of  the composition of  the soil whereby the hypocotyls 
are produced (Sastry. N.Y et al, 2012 & Jamkhande et al, 
2014). The World Health Organization recommended 
intake of  calcium in adults is 1000 mg in male and female, 
which shows that both the raw and boiled hypocotyls 
contain lesser amount of  the World Health Organization 
recommended daily standard.

Zinc and Iron
The value for zinc and iron obtained from this study were 
1.36 ± 0.007 mg/ 100 g for raw , 2.13 ± 0.028 mg/ 100 
g for boiled, and 2.05 ± 0.00 mg/ 100 g , 3.24 ± 0.021 
mg/ 100 g of  iron. These values are different to those 
obtained by [18] at 2.08 mg/100 g for boiled and 0.06 
mg/100 g for the raw which shows a significant difference 
from the result of  this study. The values ofiron obtained 
by[19] were 1.41 mg/100 g for boiled and 0.05 mg/100 g. 
The values of  the zinc and iron content obtain from the 
study is less than that of  [20, 21, 22] which were 12.74 
mg/100 g for zinc and 11.51 mg/100 g for iron. The daily 
recommended nutritional intake of  zinc for adults is 12 
mg/day and 18 mg/day for iron. Cell growth regulations, 
gene expression, are important roles played by zinc 
in the body.  Iron is use for the formation of  melanin 
and transport of  oxygen to the body tissues. This is a 
vital part of  dieting in infants, pregnant women, breast 
feeding mothers, and it is also use to prevent anemia in 
the elderly. The significant difference between the zinc 
and iron content could be due to the mineral composition 

https://journals.e-palli.com/home/index.php/ajcp


Pa
ge

 
6

https://journals.e-palli.com/home/index.php/ajcp

Am. J. Chem. Pharm. 1(1) 1-10, 2022

of  the soil and climatic conditions. This could also be 
attributed to the anti-nutritional factor such as phytate 
that can bind to essential dietary minerals such as zinc 
and iron (Oumarou. Z. Nadège W.N et al, 2019)

Magnesium
The values of  magnesium in this study indicate that 
magnesium has a concentration of  71.54 ± 0.021 mg/100 
g for raw hypocotyls and 63.25 ± 0.007 mg/100 g for 
boiled hypocotyls which shows a good deal of  magnesium 
in the samples. The results obtained from this study are 
higher than those of  and (Sobert S.J. & Struwig, M., 2019) 
which were 8.42 mg/100 g for boiled and 9.11 mg/100 
g for the raw hypocotyls. Magnesium is the second most 
intracellular cation right after potassium and has a dietary 
daily intake of  between 50-400 mg.  The results of  
this study show that the raw and boiled hypocotyls of  
Palmyra palm falls within the range of  the daily dietary 
intake of  magnesium. Magnesium plays a vital role in the 
physiological functions of  the body such as maintaining 
normal nerve and muscle function, it also supports a 
healthy immune system, maintains heart beat and also 
helps to regulate glucose level in the blood.

Manganese
The values of  manganese gotten from this study showed 
its concentration at 63.31 ± 0.077 mg/100 g and 61.49 ± 
0.014 mg/ 100 g for raw and boiled sample. The values 
obtained in this study are   greater than those reported 
on the previous work on the evaluation of  the nutritional 
and anti-nutritional composition of  the African Palmyra 
Palm by (Onwuka, G. I. al, 2005, & Oduwaye.  O. F) at 
12.85 mg/ 100 g and 11.89 mg/100 g. Manganese is one 
of  the micro elements analyzed and from the results of  
the research work carried out it had more concentration 
than the other micro elements such as iron and zinc 
analyzed. The dietary intake of  manganese is 2.3 mg 
for men older than 19 years of  age, this shows that the 
amount of  manganese in the Palmyra palm hypocotyls is 
very high and above recommended dietary daily intake.

Calcium
Calcium is one of  the essential macro elements it plays an 
important role in bones building and also blood clotting. 
About 99% of  calcium in our body is in our teeth and 
bones. Table 1 shows the concentration of  calcium  for 
the raw and boiled samples at 148.65 ± 0.00 mg/100 g 
and 120.78 ± 0.007 mg/100 g this values were higher than  
those reported by [28,29] which were  14.16 mg/100 g for 
boiled and 19.32 mg/100 g for raw. This difference could 
be attributed to the mineral composition of  the soil and 
climatic condition.    
  
Phytochemical Screening
Flavonoids
The ranges of  values obtained for this research work are 
14.40 ± 1.13 and 9.00 ± 0.85 for raw and boiled samples 
as shown in table 4.2. This shows that there is more 

Flavonoid content in the raw sample than the boiled. 
The results obtained is higher than that of  (Morton J.F. 
1992., & Akinpelu. D. A et al, 2008) on the preliminary 
Phytochemical screening of  Borassus flabellifer which 
were 9.80 ± 0.03 and 8.80 ± 0.02.  Comparatively, the 
study of  (Temitope. O. O et al, 2016) on proximate 
analysis, Phytochemical and mineral composition of  
boiled Borassus aethiopum hypocotyl reported Flavonoid 
value at 1.42 ± 0.07. Flavonoids have been reported to 
exhibit antibacterial, antifungal and antiviral effects. They 
also perform antioxidant, protective effects and inhibit 
the initiation, promotion and progression of  tumors 
(Temitope. O. O et al, 2016, Ajai, A.I, 2012)

Alkaloids
Alkaloids are the most efficient therapeutically significant 
plant substances. Pure isolated alkaloids and their 
synthetic derivatives are used as basic medicinal agents 
because of  their analgesic, antispasmodic and anti-
bacterial properties. The value obtained from this study 
shows the mean value of  the raw and boiled Palmyra 
palm hypocotyls at 76.00 ± 0.00 and 12.80 ± 0.00% 
respectively.  These values are above those reported by 
(Ajai, A.I, et al, 2012) in his study on the Phytochemical 
constituents and nutrient evaluation of  black rhun palm 
with values of  alkaloid ranging from 24.16±0.034 to 22.80 
± 0.769. Similarly some authors had reported a value of  
0.76 ± 0.01% for alkaloid in their previous study on the 
minerals and nutritional profile of  Borassus heineanus 
which is lower to the value obtained by the present study. 
These   differences in values could be attributed to the 
difference in chemical composition of  the soil and the 
hypocotyl used (Rignero. R. al, 1997).  

Tannins
The range of  values for tannins obtained from the 
present study for raw and boiled samples are 19.97 ± 
0.00 and 19.96 ± 0.00. The values obtained show a minor 
difference between the raw and boiled sample of  the 
Palmyra palm hypocotyls. The value obtained from this 
research are lower than those reported from the previous 
research on the proximate, mineral and anti nutritional 
composition of  Borassus akeassii with values ranging 
from22.80 ± 0.02 and 22.78 ± 0.02 [35] and also lower 
than that of  [36] which was 279.36 ± 30.79 g/100 g.  
Another researcher    reported tannin value at 31.77 ± 1.67 
mg/100 g on his study on the nutritional and antioxidant 
properties of     some African edible plants (AOAC, al, 
1990). The presence of  tannin in the plant indicates the 
astringent properties of  Palmyra palm hypocotyls and in 
addition, aid in the healing of  wounds and burns (AOAC, 
al, 1990)

Saponin
The value of  Saponin obtained from this study is as 
shown in table 2 for the raw and boiled hypocotyls. The 
values show that there is more Saponin value in the raw 
sample than the boiled sample 17.85 ± 3.040  and 6.00 

https://journals.e-palli.com/home/index.php/ajcp


Pa
ge

 
7

https://journals.e-palli.com/home/index.php/ajcp

Am. J. Chem. Pharm. 1(1) 1-10, 2022

± 0.000 respectively. Previous studies reported the anti-
nutritional values of  Saponin at 643.03 ± 33.20 mg/100g 
and 2.18 ± 0.28 mg/100 g in their work on the nutritional 
and anti-nutritional composition of  the African Palmyra 
palm. The values obtained in the present study are lower 
than those reported by but higher that reported by 
(AOAC (2002)  on the physicochemical characterization 
of  date palm. Some authors also reported the Saponin 
value of  Borassus aethiopum mart at 0.25 ± 0.01, these value 
is also lesser as compared to that obtained from this study. 
The variation could be partly attributed to the method of  
analysis used and as well as the climatic condition of  the 
hypocotyls harvested region. The difference could also 
be attributed to the storage time before the analysis was 
carried out.

Steroids
Table 2 shows the result of  steroids obtained from this 
study with values at 6.00 ± 0.00 and 5.25 ± 0.35 which 
is not consistent with those obtained by previous works 
which are 11.00 ± 0.87 and 9.80 ± 0.65. These values are 
similar to those reported by (AOAC al, 2002) with 5.85 ± 
0.001 and 5.92 ± 0.003. The difference in the values could 
be due to the composition of  the hypocotyl and mineral 
composition of  the soil from which there are harvested 
as well as the climatic conditions.  

Cyanogenic Derivatives
Hydrogen cyanide is of  high detriment for human 
consumption. Small amount of  it in the human body can 
cause harm to one’s health. Table   2 of  this study showed 
the values of  the cyanogenic derivative at 78.84 ± 0.901 
% and 48.60 ± 0.708 %.   Previous research work on the 
Phytochemical screening of  Borassus akeassii reported 
the cyanide concentration to be 0.35 g. The value varies 
and is lower with that obtained from the present study. 
It can be deduced from the study that the cyanide 
concentration reduces on boiling, this is because during 
boiling, disruption of  tissue and parenchyma occur and 
this facilitates the release of  the free cyanide into the 
boiling water and also the enzyme, beta glycosidase is 
destroyed. Also, evaporation of  free cyanide is volatile 
to heat. It is also worthy of  note that the disruption of  
tissue and parenchyma during boiling leads to softening 
of  the shoots which makes it palatable for consumption 
(AOAC 2002 &  Alhooti, J.S. al, 1998).

Phytate
The ranges of  values obtained from this research work on 
phytate are shown in Table 2. The value obtained shows 
a little significant difference between the two samples. 
Phytate are responsible for the inhibition of  absorption of  
minerals such as iron, zinc and calcium to the body. Some 
authors in their work on the Physico chemical properties 
of  Borassus aethiopum reported phytate concentration in 
the hypocotyls at 87.88 ± 19.59 mg/ 100 g. Another study 
on the Aphrodisiac properties of  Hypocotyls Extracts 
of  Borassus aethiopum Mart collected in Central of  Benin 

Republic reported its value at 275.75 ± 53.54 mg/100 g. 
The result obtained from this study are lesser than those 
reported by previous works. The present study revealed  
phytate value to be 27.61 ± 0.59 mg/100 g. This variation 
may be as a result of  the hypocotyl composition and also 
due to the method of  analysis employed.

Proximate Analysis
Moisture Content
The mean value of  the moisture content obtained from 
this study were 7.17% for raw and 9.33% for boiled as 
presented in Table 3. These values are higher than those 
obtained by (Camara, F. & Amaro, C.A. 2003 & Fergusin, 
E.L et al, 1993) which were 0.98% for raw and 2.16% 
for boiled. These show a significant difference between 
the samples under study with respect to moisture.  From 
literature it has been reported that high moisture content 
leads to difficulty in storage and hence spoilage. The 
significant difference between these two flours could 
be partly attributed   to the drying time of  the samples 
before usage for analysis.

Ash Content
The mean values of  ash content for this research work 
ranges from 3.00% and 2.67% for raw and boiled samples, 
the results of  this study are similar to those obtained 
by on the Physicochemical properties of  Palmyra palm 
(Borassus aethiopum) fruits from Northern Cameroon 
which were 2.88% for raw and 2.53% for boiled samples. 
These results are slightly above from those obtained by 
which are 1.17% and 1.18% respectively. The difference 
could be attributed to the effects of  climate and the 
composition of  the sample.

Fat
The ranges of  values obtained for fat in this study are 
3.35% and 2.80% for raw and boiled samples. This trend 
shows a variation in the results obtained by (Ahmed. 
A, et al, 2010] in his study of  the Proximate Analysis, 
Phytochemical and Mineral Composition of  Boiled 
Borassus aethiopum which shows the results at 0.23% for 
raw and 0.17% for boiled. The result obtained from this 
study shows that the lipid is higher than those obtained 
by (Al-Samarai et al, 2016 & Aina D.O, al, 2018) which 
are 0.01%, 1.49% and 1.11%. This result is lower than 
that obtained by (Alli. G al, 2017) with 10.73%. The low 
fat content of  Borassus aethiopum allows it better storage 
stability while avoiding rancidity and it is also an ideal 
food for weight control

Protein
The values of  protein obtained from this study are 
4.03% and 2.63%as shown in Table 3 for the raw and 
boiled samples. This shows a high protein content in 
the raw sample. The protein content obtained from this 
study was higher than those reported by (Jatau, D.F. al, 
2008).) 3.06% for the raw and 2.71 for the boiled. The 
result obtained was similar to (Ojha,V, 2013) with a value 

https://journals.e-palli.com/home/index.php/ajcp


Pa
ge

 
8

https://journals.e-palli.com/home/index.php/ajcp

Am. J. Chem. Pharm. 1(1) 1-10, 2022

of  4.90%. Studies have shown that boiling denatures 
proteins. From literature it has been reviewed that plants 
with a protein content of  greater than 12% are considered 
a good protein source (Sharma, L al, 2004). Hence, the 
hypocotyls of  Palmyra palm shoots studied are   a good 
source of  protein if  consumed in the right proportions

Crude Fibre
The value of  crude fibre obtained from this study ranges 
from 11.25% for the raw and 10.00% for the boiled. The 
results obtained from this study work were lower than 
those obtained by (Sharma, L al, 2004 & Bhatt,P., al, 2005). 
Previous work on optimization of  Phenolics and Dietary 
Fibre Extraction from Date   palm seeds reported higher 
values at 23.92% and 28.20% respectively (Kumbhare.V 
al, 1996). The presence of  crude fibre in food or plant is 
an indication of  the level of  non-digestible carbohydrate 
and lignin.

Carbohydrate
The carbohydrate values of  the raw and boiled sample of  
Borassus aethiopum obtained from this study were 72.57% 
and 71.20% as reported in Table 3. This results show that 
hypocotyls of  Borassus aethiopum are rich in carbohydrate. 
The results obtained from this study are lower than 
those of  (Kumbhare.V al, 1996 & Giri, S al, 2000) 
which reported values of  86.75% for raw and 87.19% 
for boiled. From the Present study it can be drawn that 
carbohydrates are the major macronutrients of  Palmyra 
palm hypocotyls (shoots). The results obtained are also 
lower than those obtained in Ivory Coast by (Zhang,J., 
2008) which averaged 83.79 ± 1.0 and higher than those 
reported in Benin by (Wan-You al, 2005) in his work on 
the Valorization of  the Palmyra palm hypocotyl with 
value at 43.50%. The major function of  carbohydrates is 
to produce energy to the body. Palmyra palm shoots are 
comparable to most starchy foods such as yam, cassava, 
with little protein and fat.

CONCLUSION
Borassus aethiopum hypocotyl is a nonconventional food 
resource with potentially exploitable attributes. The flour 
of  these hypocotyls contains an appreciable amount of  
physico-chemical properties. This study evaluated the 
physico-chemical composition of  Borassus aethiopum and 
revealed that it is rich in carbohydrates, with low lipid (fat) 
content, also with an appreciable amount of  crude fibre. 
The hypocotyls also contain certain amount of  protein; 
moisture and low ash content
 The hypocotyls also contains appreciable amount of  
Minerals that are vital for metabolic activities in the 
body.The mineral composition revealed all the minerals 
analyzed with appreciable amounts in potassium, calcium, 
magnesium, manganese, and sodium. The study also 
reports a low amount of  minerals with respect to zinc 
and iron which is due to the presence of  phytate that 
inhibits its adsorption.
The quantitative phytochemical analysis of  the Borassus 

aethiopum hypocotyls revealed a good percentage of  
phytochemicals such as alkaloids, Saponin, flavonoids, 
steroids, cyanogenic derivatives, tannins and phytate and 
hence can be used in pharmaceutical and medical science 
to produce drugs and supplements that can prevent 
diseases.

REFERENCES
AAina D.O (2018).Proximate Analysis, Phytochemical 

and Mineral Composition of  Boiled Borassus 
aethiopum Mart. International Journal of  Agricultural and 
Veterinary Sciences. 4(1), 18-23.

Alli. G. (2012). Nutritional and Anti-Nutritional 
Composition of  the African Palmyra Palm Seedling. 
Nigerian Journal of  Nutritional Sciences. 33(2), 12-22

Akinpelu. D. A., Adegboye M. F, & Okoh, A. I. (2008). The 
Bioactive and Phytochemical properties of  Garcina 
kola (Heckel) seed extract on some pathogens. African 
Journal of  Biotechnology. 7(21),3934 – 3938.

Ajai, A.I., Ochigbo, S.S., Jacob, J.O., Ndamitso, M.M.& 
Abubakar, U.  (2012). Proximate and Mineral 
Compositions of  Different Species of  Kola Nuts. 
European Journal of  Applied Engineering and Scientific 
Research. 1:44-47.

AOAC (1999). Official method 925, 10.Official Methods 
of  Analysis. Association of  official Analytical 
Chemist International 3rd Edition, Gaithersburg, MD, 
Washington, DC, USA.686-688.

AOAC (1990). Official methods of  Analysis.Association of  
Official Analytical Chemists 2ndEdition, Washington DC, 
USA. 684.

AOAC (2002). Official Methods of  Analysis.17th Edition. 
Washington DC: Association of  Official Analytical 
Chemists. 688.

Alhooti, J.S., Sidhu, S.S. & Qabazard, H. (1998). Chemical 
Composition of  Seeds Date Fruit Cultivars of  United 
Arab Emirates. Journal of  Food Sciences and Technology. 
35: 44-46.

Ahmed. A., Fadimatou, B., Tchiegang, C., Saidou, C. and 
Adji, M.B. (2010). Physico-chemical and Functional 
Properties of  Bâtchi or Hypocotyle Axes of  Borassus 
aethiopum Mart. African Journal of  Food Science. 4(10), 
635-641. 

Al-Samarai, A.H, Al-Samarai, R.R, Ah-Salihi, F.G (2016).
Phytochemical Constituents and Nutrient Evaluation 
of  Date Palm(Phoenix dactylifera,l.) Pollen Grains. 
Turkish Journal of  Pure Science. 21(1), 58-59.

Abiodun, A. O., Oyekanmi, A. M. & Oluoti, O. J. (2014). 
Biochemical and Phytochemical Properties of  Cola 
acuminata Varieties.  American Journal of  Experimental 
Agriculture.  4(11), 1280-1287. 

Ahmed. A, Djibrilla. A, Clerge T, Clement (2010). 
Physicochemical properties of  Palmyra palm fruits 
from Northern Cameroon. African Journal of  Food 
Sciences, 4:115-119.

Akinniyi. J.A, Waziri. M, Usman. H.S . (2010). Assessment 
of  the Anabolic effect of  Androgens of  the Edible 
Portion of  the Shoot of  Borassus aethiopum. Journal 

https://journals.e-palli.com/home/index.php/ajcp


Pa
ge

 
9

https://journals.e-palli.com/home/index.php/ajcp

Am. J. Chem. Pharm. 1(1) 1-10, 2022

of  Science Research.2:362-364.
Amos, S., Kolawale, E., Akah, P., Wambebe, C. & 

Gamaniel. T.(2001). Behavioral effect of  aqueous 
extracts of  Guinea Senegalensis in mice and rats. 
Journal of  Phyto medicines, 8(5), 356-361

Adamu, B., Isah, Emmanuel, O., Olurunsola, Yohonna, 
E., Zaman. (2012). Physico chemical properties 
of  Borassus aethiopum Starch Asian Journal of  
pharmaceutical and Clinical Research. 4(3), 132-134.

Anhwange, B, A, Kyenge, B.A,  Kukwa, R.E, &Ishwah, 
B. (2020). Chemical Analysis of  Prosopis Africana 
(Guil.&Perr). Nigerian Annnals of  Pure and Applied 
Sciences. 3(2), 129-140.

Al-Farsi, M.A. and Lee, C.Y. (2008). Optimization of  
Phenolics and Dietary Fibre Extraction from Date 
Seeds.   Journal of  Food Chemistry. 108: 977-985

Assoi . S, Konan. K, Walker. L.T, Holser. R, Agbo. G.N. 
(2014). Functionality and yield of  pectin extracted 
from Palmyra palm fruit. Journal of  Food Science and 
Technology. 58:214-221.

Barminaja. J.T, Onen. A., Williams. E.T,  Zaruwa. M. Z, 
Mamuru SA, (2008). Studies on functional properties 
of     Borassus starch from fresh germinating nuts of  
giginya (Borassus aethiopum) palm. Journal of  Food and 
Hydro-colloids 22: 298-304.

Benjamin,  I.    Benjamin. A. A, Terhile. M.  I,   Torna . 
T.  W, Solomon. D. I, Tor .P. N, Teghtegh. F,,   John. 
O. A., (2022). Proximate, Mineral and Anti nutritional 
Composition of  Kola nut (Cola nitida), Chemistry 
Research Journal, 7(3),49-59

Camara, F. & Amaro, C.A. (2003). Nutritional Aspects 
of  Zinc Availability. International Journal of  Food 
Sciences and Nutrition. 54: 143-152. 

Dewole, E.A., Dewumi, D.F.A, Alabi, J.Y.T & Adegoke, 
A. (2013). Proximate and Phytochemical of  colanitida 
and cola acuminate. Pakistan journal of  Biological sciences. 
16: 1593-1596.

Eleazu C.O., Eleazu K.C., Awa E, & Chukwuma S.C. 
(2012). Comparative study of  the phytochemical 
composition of  the leaves of  five Nigerian Medicinal 
Plants. Journal of  Biotechnology and Pharmaceutical 
Research, 3(2), 42-46.

Edeoga, .H. O., Okwu. D., Mbachie O. (2005). Nutritional 
values of  known vegetables of  Nigeria. African Journal 
of  Biotechnology, 4(7), 685-688

Funatogwa. K, Hayashi.  S, Shimomura.  H. (2004). “Anti-
bacterial activity of  hydrolysable tannins derived from 
medicinal plant against Helicbacter pylon” (pdt). 
Journal of  Microbial Immunology. 48(4), 251-61.

Fergusin, E.L., Gibson, R.A., Opara, O., Stephen, A.M. 
& Thomson, L.U. (1993).The zinc, calcium, copper, 
magnesium, non-starch polysaccharide and phytate 
content of  seventy eight locally grown prepared 
African foods. Journal of  Food Analysis. 6: 337-342. 

Gbesso. F., Adjatin A., Dansi, A.A. & Akoegninou.,A. 
(2016), “Aphrodisiac properties of  Hypocotyls 
Extracts of  Borassus aethiopum Mart (Arecaceae) 
collected in Central of  Benin Republic,” International 

Journal of  Current Microbiology and Applied Sciences.5(3), 
802-814.

Gbesso F, Akouehon, G, Tente, B, & Akoegninou. 
A. (2013). “Aspects Technico-Economiques de 
la Transformation de Borassus aethiopum Mart 
(Arecaceae) Au Centre-Benin,” Journal Afrique Science, 
9(1),59-173.

House, W.A. (1999). Trace Element Bioavailability as 
exemplified by Iron and Zinc. International Journal of  
Field Crops Research. 60: 115-141. 

Jatau, D.F. (2008). Profitability assessment of  Borassus
Jamkhande. P. G, Suiyawanshi. V. A, Wattamwar. A.S, 

Barde. S. R. (2014). Invitro Anthelmintic Efficacy of  
Borassus flabellifer linn (palmae) against pheretimoi 
posthuma. Asian Journal of  Tropical Diseases and Health. 
4: 199-203.

Karou, D., Savadago, A., Canini, A., Yeme.  O, S., 
Montessano, JS.,Collizzi, V. & Traore, S,S. (2006). 
Antibacterial activity of  alkaloids from Sidaacuta 
africana. Journal of  Biotechnology.5(2), 195-200

Kolawole, S.E. & Obueh, H.O. (2013). A study of  the 
oxalate, phytate and cyanide contents of  selected 
Nigerian Foods and Diet in Akwa Ibom and Cross 
River states of  Nigeria. African journal of  Food Science 
and Technology, 4: 44-47.

Kabiru, J.U., Bello, M.A., Badaru, M., Sirajo, M., Lawal, 
G.H. & Nasiru, A.S. (2015). Nutritional and Anti 
nutritional Profile of  Borassus aethiopum Mart 
shoots. International Journal of  Sciences Basic and Applied 
Research. 24(3), 39-49. 

Kamanzy, A,K., Kone, M., Terraux, C., Traore, D., 
Hostettman, K.,& Dosso, M. (2002). Evaluation of  
the Antibacterial Activities of  Medicinal Plants from 
Ivory Coast. Journal of  Phytoether Research, 16(5), 479-50

Mahan, M.R., Konan, N’G.Y., Sidibe, D., Coulibaly, A., 
Ezoua, P., Chatigre, K.O. & Biego, G.H.M. (2016). 
Nutritive compounds from leaves of  Moringa oleifera 
L and beans of  Vigna unguiculata W for Improvement 
of  the Meal Deriving with New Shoots of  Borassus 
aethiopum M in Côte d’Ivoire. International Journal of  
Environmental and Agriculture Research. 2:1-11.  

Morton J.F. (1992). Widespread Tannin intake via 
stimulants and masticatories, especially Guarana, 
Kola nut, Betel vine and Accessories. Journal of  Basic 
Life Science. 2: 739-765 

Nethagia. S, Sivasamya. A, Thennarasua.  G, Saravanan. 
G.(2010). Adsorption of  malachite Green dye onto 
activated carbon derived from Borassus aethiopum 
flower biomass. Journal of  Hazardous Materials 181: 
271-280.

Oumarou. Z. Nadège W.N, Souleymane K, Cissé H, 
Adama S, Bassibila A.Z, Fulbert N, Yves T, Aly. S. 
(2019). Evaluation of  Nutritional composition of  
Borassus aethiopum mart (kolabula) consumed 
in Burkina Faso. American journal of  Food Science and 
Technology.7(6),215-222.

Onwuka, G. I. (2005). Food Analysis and Instrumentation: 
Theory and Practical. Journal of  Food and Nutritional 

https://journals.e-palli.com/home/index.php/ajcp


Pa
ge

 
10

https://journals.e-palli.com/home/index.php/ajcp

Am. J. Chem. Pharm. 1(1) 1-10, 2022

Sciences.5(16), 133-137
Oklo, A. O. and Famurewa, A. C. (2015). Estimation 

of  Nutritional and search Characteristics of  
Dioscoreaalata (water yam) Varieties Commonly 
Cultivated in the South-Eastern Nigeria. British Journal 
of  Applied Science and Technology. 6(2), 67-77

Oduwaye.  O. F., Omenna. E. C. & Ogundeji. B. A. 
(2018). Effect of  fungal pathogens on the nutritional 
qualities of  Kola nuts (Cola nitida). Journal of  Science 
Nutritional and Health. 2(5), 05-09 

Rignero. R.   (1997).  Isolating bioactive compounds from 
marine organism Journal of  Marine Biotechnology. 5(4), 
187-193.

Sakande. J, Nikiema .A, Kabie. E, Lompo. M, Bassene. 
E.  (2012). Invitro Assay of  Potential Antifungal 
and Antibacterial Activities of  Extracts of  Borassus 
aethiopum mart. International Journal of  Nigerian Society. 
24:48-51.

Sastry. N.Y,  Padmaja . J,  Rao.R.P, Kirani. KRLS, 
Kaladhar D, (2012). Invitro dose dependent study 
of  anti-human pathogenic bacteria and free radical 
scavenging activities of  methanolic seed coat extract 
of  Borassus flabellifer. Asian Journal of  Pharmaceutical 
and Clinical Research.5:83-86.

Sakande. J, Kabre. E, Lompo. M, Pale. E, nikiema J.B. 

(2013). Anti-inflammatory and Antioxidant Activities 
of  a fraction 11 of  male inflorescences of  Borassus 
aethiopum Mart (Arecaceae). American Journal of  
Biochemical and Molecular Biology. 13: 101-109.

Sobert S.J. & Struwig, M., (2019), ‘Borassus aethiopum 
Mart. (Arecaceae) in Limpopo province with a key to 
South African palms, Bothalia. International Journal of  
Tropical Agriculture. 49(1), 2374-2376.

Temitope. O. O., Fasusi.  O. A., Ogunmodede. A. F., 
Thonda. A. O., Oladejo B. O., Yusuf- Babatunde. A. 
M., & Ige. O. O. (2016). Phytochemical Composition 
and Antimicrobial Activity of  Daniellaoliveri Extracts 
on Selected Clinical Micro-organisms. International 
Journal of  Biochemical Research. 14(1),  1-13.

Waziri, M,. Akinniyi. J. & Salako. A. (2010). “ LaToxicite 
de l’extrait Acetonique Muruchi, Shoot de Borassus 
aethiopum Mart,” European Journal of  Scientific Research, 
41(1), 6-12.

Zaharaddeen. N.G, Afidah. A.R, Saadath. A.H. (2014).  
Potential of   Borassus aethiopum shells as precursor 
for activated carbon preparation by physico-
chemical activation; optimization, equilibrium and 
kinetic studies. Journal of  Environmental and Chemical 
Engineering. 2: 1423-1433

https://journals.e-palli.com/home/index.php/ajcp

