PHYTOCHEMICAL COMPOSITION, ANTIBACTERIAL ACTIVITY, PROXIMATE AND MINERAL ANALYSIS OF METHANOL EXTRACT FROM COMBINED SEEDS AND PEELS OF PICRALIMA NITIDA

Background and Aim: This study explores the untapped potential of the discarded seed and peel of Picralima nitida, a plant with numerous ethno-medicinal uses. This study was aimed to conduct a comprehensive investigation into the phytochemical, antimicrobial, proximate, and mineral composition of the combined seed and peel to maximize its utilization. Methods: Phytochemical screening method was used to identify the variety of biological active constituents in the seed and peel, proximate composition analysis technique measured the basic nutritional content of the seed and peel, mineral composition analysis was used to determine the levels of essential minerals and trace elements and antibacterial susceptibility testing was performed against Escherichia coli and Staphylococcus aureus, assessing the extract ability to inhibit microbial growth, with a focus on the sensitivity of E. coli. Results: Phytochemical analysis showed the presence of some compounds like: flavonoids, saponins, tannins, alkaloids, and polyphenols, while proximate composition analysis showed the following values: moisture (12.80%), carbohydrate (59.71%), crude protein (5.85%), ash (2.53%), crude fat (4.64%), and crude fibre (14.05%). The caloric content was 265.8 kcal/100 g, indicating a high nutritional content suitable for use as a feed additive. Mineral composition analysis revealed significant levels of essential elements. Sodium-to-potassium ratio (0.69) aligns with World Health Organization recommendations for cardiovascular health. Conclusions: These findings highlight the promising pharmacological and nutritional value of Picralima nitida seed and peel, suggesting its potential as a bioactive additive in both ethno-medicine and industrial applications, including as a complementary food source and poultry feed additive. Peer Review History: Received 5 December 2024; Reviewed 11 January 2025; Accepted 20 February; Available online 15 March 2025 Academic Editor: Dr. DANIYAN Oluwatoyin Michael, Obafemi Awolowo University, ILE-IFE, Nigeria, [email protected]