Work

Elemental analysis of Fadogia ancylantha leaves used as a nutraceutical in Mashonaland West Province, Zimbabwe

Year: 2023

Type: article

Abstract: In this study, the concentrations of the essential elements to the human body N, K, Mg, P, Ca, Fe, Mn, and Zn of the fermented and non-fermented Fadogia ancylantha leaf samples were analysed to assess their nutritional value in two different areas in Zimbabwe: Mhangura (Mashonaland West, Province) and Alaska (Mashonaland West Province). Atomic absorption spectroscopy and ultraviolet spectrophotometry techniques were used to measure the concentrations of the minerals. The concentrations of manganese were significantly high (p < 0.05) in non-fermented treatments, with Mhangura samples having 0.447 mg/g and Alaska samples having 0.453 mg/g. Iron was high in fermented samples with Mhangura samples having 0.245 mg/g and Alaska samples having 0.270 mg/g. The concentrations of manganese and iron in Fadogia ancylantha can be used to supplement the recommended daily doses in pregnant, menstruating, and lactating women. The study, therefore, recommends that Fadogia ancylantha be used as a nutraceutical for the supplementation of iron and manganese.

Source: Open Life Sciences

DOI: 10.1515/biol-2022-0695

Authors: Tom Muzenda, Ryman Shoko, Peter Chimwanda, Joice Ndlovu

Institution: Chinhoyi University of Technology

Language: English

Topic: Heavy Metals in Plants

Subfield: Analytical Chemistry

Field: Chemistry

Domain: Physical Sciences

SDG: Zero hunger

Open Access status: gold

Estimated APC paid: $2,163