Phytochemical Composition, Nutritional Value, and Antioxidant Properties of <i>Anthocleista djalonensis</i>

Background and aims: Traditional medicinal plants represent a vital source of bioactive compounds with therapeutic potential. Anthocleista djalonensis, a member of the Gentianaceae family, is extensively utilized in African traditional medicine for the treatment of diabetes, malaria, hypertension, and gastrointestinal disorders. This study aims to investigate the phytochemical composition, nutritional profile, and antioxidant properties of the stem bark of Anthocleista djalonensis in order to provide scientific validation for its traditional applications and to explore potential modern uses. Methods: The stem bark of Anthocleista djalonensis was collected from Benin City, Nigeria, and authenticated for accuracy. Aqueous extraction of the plant material was conducted using a freeze-drying method to preserve the bioactive compounds. Phytochemical screening was performed to identify the presence of tannins, flavonoids, alkaloids, saponins, and phenolics. Proximate analysis was conducted to determine the moisture, protein, fat, fiber, ash, and carbohydrate content of the stem bark. The antioxidant activity was evaluated using the DPPH radical scavenging assay, with results compared to those of Vitamin C as a standard reference. Results: The qualitative screening of Anthocleista djalonensis stem bark revealed the presence of key phytochemicals, including alkaloids, saponins, tannins, flavonoids, and phenols. Proximate analysis indicated the composition of the bark as follows: 6.2±0.025% protein, 37±1.6% fat, 0.11±0.010% fiber, 9.3±0.19% ash, 47±1.8% carbohydrate, and 25±0.91% moisture. Antioxidant activity, measured using the DPPH radical scavenging assay, demonstrated a significant dose-dependent free radical scavenging effect, yielding an IC₅₀ of 36.25±1.03 µg/ mL. This was compared to ascorbic acid, which exhibited an IC₅₀ of 21.87±0.92 µg/mL, with a statistically significant difference noted (P&lt;0.05). Conclusion: The findings from this study support the traditional medicinal use of Anthocleista djalonensis and underscore its potential for nutraceutical and pharmaceutical applications. The presence of various phytochemicals and notable antioxidant activity indicates that this plant may serve as a valuable source of bioactive compounds. Further research aimed at isolating and characterizing these bioactive constituents could pave the way for the development of novel therapeutic agents, enhancing our understanding of their mechanisms and potential health benefits.