Assessment of the proximate and nutritional composition of Clerodendrum indicum (L.) Kuntze leaves

Wild edible plants play a significant role in enhancing dietary diversity and providing essential nutrients, particularly in rural and tribal communities. This study focuses on the nutritional and proximate composition of Clerodendrum indicum (L.) Kuntze leaves, a lesser-known wild leafy vegetable by using standard methods of analysis. Proximate analysis revealed a moisture content of 11.24 ± 0.05 g/100 g, crude protein (23.59 ± 0.67 g/100 g), crude fiber (14.88 ± 0.66 g/100 g), crude fat (0.68 ± 0.02 g/100 g), total ash (9.28 ± 0.21 g/100 g), and carbohydrate content of 55.20 ± 0.39 g/100 g. The energy value was calculated to be 320.92 ± 3.36 kcal/100 g. The leaves also contained notable levels of ascorbic acid (154.42 mg/100 g) and sugars, including total sugars (13.90 g/100 g) and reducing sugars (7.34 g/100 g). These findings highlight the nutritional potential of C. indicum leaves and their role in promoting dietary diversity, nutritional security. Integrating this underutilized plant into regular diets can contribute to improved nutrition and the development of sustainable agricultural practices.