Preliminary Investigation into the Chemical Properties of Peperomia pellucida L.

Research Article

**Preliminary Investigation into the Chemical Properties of Peperomia pellucida L.**

R.U. Egwuche, A.A. Odetola and O.L. Erukainure

The leaves of Peperomia pellucida were studied with the aim of investigating the nutritional and phytochemical properties. Proximate composition and phytochemical properties were analyzed using standard procedures, while mineral compositions were determined with UV/Visible and atomic absorption spectrophotometers. Data were reported as mean of triplicates. Proximate analysis showed a high ash content; the crude fibre content was higher, while the carbohydrate content was observed to be the highest. Mineral analysis showed very low contents of manganese, iron, zinc and copper being the lowest, but high sodium content was observed. Phytochemical screening revealed the presence of alkaloids, cardenolides, saponins and tannins, while anthraquinones was observed to be absent. A result from this present study indicates an affirmation of the use of this plant in management of various ailments. The observed chemicals are responsible for its medicinal properties. The additive or synergistic action of these chemicals and their compounds at target sites associated with physiological process may be responsible for the beneficial effects exerted by Peperomia pellucida.

PDF Fulltext XML References Citation

How to cite this article

R.U. Egwuche, A.A. Odetola and O.L. Erukainure, 2011. Preliminary Investigation into the Chemical Properties of Peperomia pellucida L. Research Journal of Phytochemistry, 5: 48-53.

URL: https://scialert.net/abstract/?doi=rjphyto.2011.48.53

Comments

maridil R. dagapioso Reply

30 August, 2011

sir..i would like to know more about the process in the phytochemical screening of peperomia pellucida.. could you pls.. tell me the details?

jackie shine savio Reply

19 December, 2012

Pls sir can u tell me d methodology, literature review, about the phytochemical components and nutritional components of alchornea cordifolia and alchornea laxifolia

Research Journal of Phytochemistry

Article Trend

Total views 1042

Search

Authors

R.U. Egwuche

A.A. Odetola

O.L. Erukainure

Keywords