Determination of Nutritional and Anti Nutritional Properties of Gymnema Sylvester Leaves

Student: Abdulhafiz Ishaq (Project, 2025)
Department of Biochemistry
Federal University, Gusau, Zamfara State

Abstract

This study investigated the nutritional and anti-nutritional properties of Gymnema sylvestre leaves collected from Sabongida Farms in Gusau, Zamfara State. The analysis was conducted in the Biochemistry Laboratory of Federal University Gusau using standard analytical techniques. The nutritional assessment revealed a high carbohydrate content (56.34%), with moderate levels of crude protein (7.34%), crude fiber (6.02%), and ash (9.20%). Fat and moisture contents were relatively low, while the energy value was 287.10 kcal/100g. Anti-nutritional analysis showed the presence of oxalate (13.60 mg/100g), nitrate (131.70 mg/100g), phytate (2.02 mg/100g), Cyanide (0.50 mg/100g), and tannins (0.041 mg/100g), all within safe or manageable levels. These findings suggest that Gymnema sylvestre leaves have nutritional potential with minimal anti-nutritional risk when properly processed. The study supports the dietary and therapeutic use of this underutilized plant in combating malnutrition and promoting food diversity in rural communities.
Keywords: Gymnema sylvestre, nutritional composition, anti-nutrients, medicinal plant, food security.

Keywords
Gymnema sylvestre nutritional composition anti-nutrients medicinal plant food security.
Filters
Institutions