Abstract

F. O. Jimoh, A. A. Adedapo* and A. J. Afolayan

The nutritional, phytochemical and antioxidant activities of acetone, methanol and aqueous extracts of the leaves of Rumex sagittatus Thunb. were investigated using standard analytical methods in order to assess the therapeutical potential of the leaves of this plant. The proximate analysis showed that the leaves contained appreciable amount of ash, crude protein, lipids, fibre and carbohydrates. Elemental analysis in mg/100 g (DW) indicated that the leaves contained appreciable sodium, potassium, calcium, magnesium, iron, zinc, phosphorus, copper, manganese and nitrogen. The chemical composition in mg/100 g (DW) showed the presence of alkaloid, saponins and phytate. The extracts also exhibited DPPH and ABTS radical scavenging activities, which were comparable to that of ascorbic acid and BHT. Extracts also contained appreciable levels of polyphenolic compounds. In comparing the nutrient and chemical constituents with recommended dietary allowance (RDA) values, the results reveal that the leaves contain an appreciable amount of nutrients, minerals, and phytochemicals and low levels of toxicants.