Proximate and Phytochemical Analysis of Cajanus Cajan (Pigeon Pea) Leaves

Abstract

Cajanus cajan (Pigeon pea) leaves from ‘ita osu’ market of Ijebu Ode, Ogun state, Nigeria, were collected and qualitatively analysed for identification of phytochemical constituents. The results showed the presence of bioactive constituents of carbohydrates, alkaloids, flavonoids, tannins, saponins, and terpenes. Phlobatannins, anthraquinones and sterols were not detected. The proximate analysis of the leaves revealed a composition of 11.20% moisture, 8.22% ash, 22.4% crude protein, 2.74% crude fat, 7.25% crude fibre, 63.39% NFE, 9.8% alcohol soluble extractive value, 4.32% water soluble extractive value and 0.65% acid insoluble ash value. The significance of this plant was discussed in relation to the presence of these metabolites as well as the proximate values. The presence of some phytochemicals like saponins and flavonoids explained the medicinal action of the plant encountered in its therapeutic uses.