Phytochemical and Proximate Studies on Justicia secunda vahl (Blood root)

Morphologically, Justicia secunda vahl can be visually identified easily by possession of an erect plant that grows up to 90cm/3-4 ft, a perennial herb with an evergreen leave possessing a simple leaf, opposite, acuminate and acute at apex and base respectively and an entire margin with Glabrous surface across the stem, petiole and leaves. The leaves of Justicia secunda used in this work were washed without squeezing, pressed using carbon paper, milled and stored in an airtight labeled container. Standard methods were used for both phytochemical and proximate analysis. Qualitative analysis was carried out on the sample extract, the results showed the presence of Phenols, Alkaloids, Tannins, Saponins, Anthraquinone Glycosides. Quantitative analysis was also carried out using the sample extract and the results showed phenol (1.02 + 0.78), Alkaloid (2.6 + 0.86), Anthraquinone Glycosides (0.21 + 0.27), Tanins (1.20 + 0.58). The Proximate composition was Moisture content determination, Ash content determination, Carbonhydrate determination, Fat content, Crude Fiber determination, and Crude protein determination, Proximate analysis showed that there was significant difference in the leave. Table (4.5) showed that these constituents are of great nutritive and medicinal importance. Justicia secunda plants are readily available, rich in essential nutrients needed for growth and development.