- 1 Ibrahim M.I*., 2 Tswanya. M.N., 3 Ahmad U.F., and 4 Salisu A.
- Biotechnology Advanced Research Centre of Sheda Science and Technology Complex (SHESTCO), Abuja Nigeria
This paper examined the nutritional composition, phytoconstituents, mineral content, and antioxidant effect of Hibiscus sabdariffa L. (Roselle) leaves cultivated at the SHESTCO. The leaves were subjected to qualitative and quantitative phytochemical screening, proximate analysis, mineral profiling, and the DPPH scavenging radicalassaywas used to assesantioxidantactivity. Screening for Phytochemicals confirmed the existence of phenols, saponins, flavonoids, alkaloids, glycosides, and tannins, with phenols and flavonoids being abundant (374.71 mg/100g and 173.83 mg/100g, respectively). The leaves showed high crude protein (17.41%), dietary fiber (21.87%), and appreciable levels of ash (12.18%), carbohydrates (28.37%), and energy (211.11 kcal/100g). Mineral analysis indicated substantial amounts of calcium (546.75 mg/100g), magnesium (270.7 mg/100g), and phosphorus (63.3 mg/100g), supporting the potential of Roselle leaves as a mineral-rich vegetable. The extract also exhibited concentration-dependent of antioxidant activity. These findings highlight the nutritional and functional potential of H. sabdariffa leaves and support their incorporation into nutraceuticals and functional food formulations.
