Project Materials

PHYTOCHEMICAL ANALYSIS OF SOME BRANDS OF BITTERS SOLD IN AKWA IBOM STATE

ABSTRACT

Goko cleanser, Teco cleanser, and Goody Cleanser are poly-herbal concoctions sold in bulk in Akwa Ibom State. Poly-herbal mixes are widely used by state residents due to their supposed medicinal benefits and low cost. This investigation was conducted to identify the phytochemical ingredients of various herbal mixes. The quantitative and qualitative analyses were conducted. The qualitative analysis was conducted using the Association of Analytical Chemists (AOAC) method. The qualitative phytochemical examination shows that all of the herbal mixes were high in alkaloids, phenols, tannins, steroids, coumarins, flavonoids, emodins, proteins, and carbohydrates. The quantitative analysis was done in triplicates and statistically assessed using Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) version 20 with a significant level of (P<0.05). Goko cleanser has high levels of saponins (21.48±0.11) and alkaloids (16.23±0.06). Teco cleanser was found to be high in saponins (35.37±0.00), flavonoids (17.99±0.01), and alkaloids (12.81±0.00). Goody cleaner contained a significant concentration of alkaloids (12.10±0.00).

Chapter one

INTRODUCTION

1.1 Background of the Study

For many years, herbal mixes have been the strength of traditional medicine. Many authors have recently conducted research on herbal mixtures to determine their therapeutic effects (Udochukwu et al., 2015; Amandeep et al., 2015; Huzaifa et al., 2014; Feng et al., 2014; Gazuwa et al., 2013; Ekor, 2013; Akinjogunla et al., 2011; Nnodim et al., 2010; Duncan, 1957; and Hill, 1952).

Herbal medicine is used by more than three-quarters of the world’s population, and the tendency is expanding globally. Furthermore, while herbal medication may be beneficial, it is not without risks (Oreagba et al, 2011).

A number of plants include phytochemicals, which are significant components of both human and animal diets. These include fruits, seeds, herbs, and vegetables (Okwu 2005). A diet high in fruits and vegetables protects against a range of ailments, including cardiovascular disease.

Herbs and spices are easily available sources of natural antioxidants (Okwu 2004). Phytochemicals are chemical molecules produced during a plant’s normal metabolic processes.

These molecules are frequently referred to as “secondary metabolites,” and they are classified into various types, including alkaloids, flavonoids, coumarins, glycosides, gums, polysaccharides, phenols, tannins, terpenes, and terpenoids.