Foaming Characteristics of Methanol Extract of Leaf of Cucurbita maxima Duchesne

In this study, preliminary screening, histochemical analysis and phytochemical screening were conducted to determine the probable presence of saponins in the methanol extract of the leaf of Cucurbita maxima Duchesne. The results revealed the probable presence of saponins and some other secondary metabolites. The yield of the extract obtained from the leaf of Cucurbita maxima Duchesne was 26.1 %. The foam heights and foaming times of the methanol extract of the leaf of Cucurbita maxima Duchesne and commercial detergents (Triton-X 100 and Tween 80) at concentrations of 0.2%, 0.4%, 0.5%, 0.6%. 0.8% and 1.0% were subjected to statistical analysis (ANOVA) to compare their foam heights and foaming times at 0 min, 1 min, 5 min, and T hr. In comparison between methanol extract and Triton-X 100 at 0 min, 1 min, 5 min and Tc (hr) of 0.5% concentration, there was a very high difference at p<0.05. So also, in comparison between methanol extract and Tween 80 of 0.5% concentration, there was a very high significant difference at 0 min, a moderate significant difference at 1 min and a high significant difference at 5 min and Tc (hr) at p<0.05. As for the comparison between Triton-X100 and Tween 80, there was a very high significant difference 0 min, 1 min, 5 min and no significant difference at Tc (hr) at p<0.05. The foam power of the methanol extract of the leaf of Cucurbita maxima Duchesne was 0.00, 86.0 % for Triton-X 100 and 73.1 % for Tween 80. The R5 value of the methanol extract represented poor foam stability compared to the values of Triton-X 100 and Tween 80. Therefore, the potential of using saponins of methanol extract from the leaf of Cucurbita maxima Duchesne as stabilizing agents in detergency is poor. However, they may find use in the food and cosmetics industries.