Comparative analysis of Chrysobalanus icaco and Ixora coccinea from Adazi-Nnukwu, Anambra State, Nigeria

This study presents a comparative evaluation of the phytochemical and proximate compositions of two ornamental and medicinal plant species, Chrysalises cacao and Ixora coccinea, collected from Adazi-Nnukwu, Nigeria. Using standard gravimetric and AOAC methods, we analyzed phytochemical constituents including tannins, alkaloids, flavonoids, saponins, cardiac glycosides, cyanogenic glycosides, steroids, anthocyanins, phytates, and phenols, as well as nutritional components such as protein, fat, fiber, moisture, ash, and carbohydrate. C. coco showed higher levels of alkaloids (10.14%), steroids (4.25%), and moisture (66.24%), while I. coccinea had greater flavonoid (10.91%), carbohydrate (18.05%), and cardiac glycoside (5.22%) contents. Both species exhibited important ethnobotanical values, including edible uses, medicinal applications, and environmental relevance. These results highlight the need for conservation efforts to ensure the sustainability of these plant species in southeastern Nigeria.