Proximate and Mineral Analyses of African Grapes (<i>Lannea microcarpa</i>) Roots for Nutritive and Therapeutic Application

The roots of African grapes (Lannea microcarpa) have long been utilised in traditional medicine for their perceived therapeutic properties. However, their comprehensive proximate and mineral analysis remains largely unexplored. Proximate composition and mineral content analysis of the roots were conducted. The sample was obtained from Katsayal, Katsina State, and analysed using standard procedures. The macro and micro metals were determined using Flame Photometer and Atomic Absorption Spectroscopy, respectively. The results revealed a moisture content of 28.0 ±2.0%, an ash content of 21.3±1.2%, and significant levels of crude fibre (29.0±0.50%), crude lipid (9.60±0.20%), crude protein (6.91±0.01%), and available carbohydrates (33.3±0.10%). The calorific value of the root was determined to be 245 ± 0.01 kcal/g. The micro-mineral analysis revealed the detection of Copper (8.60 ± 0.002 mg/kg), Magnesium (9.24 ± 0.004 mg/kg), Manganese (41.9 ± 0.001 mg/kg), Iron (405 ± 0.042 mg/kg), and Zinc (9.46 ± 0.001 mg/kg). The macro- minerals, namely Calcium (28400 mg/kg), Potassium (1530 mg/kg), and Sodium (45030 mg/kg), were found to be present in the sample. It is advisable to conduct additional research to examine the identified minerals' bioavailability, clarify the phytochemical profile, and investigate potential bioactive compounds.