Analysis of Proximate and Phytomicrobial Properties of Fluted Pumpkin and white Leadwort Obtained from Some Botanical Gardens in Warri South Local Government

Authors

Osaide Stella Eguono Oritsegbubemi

Biology Department, College of Education, Warri, Delta State (Nigeria)

Chukuka, Vivian Ishioma

Dept of Biological science, Dennis Osadebay University, Anwai, Asaba, Delta State (Nigeria)

Article Information

DOI: 10.51584/IJRIAS.2025.1009000102

Subject Category: Food science

Volume/Issue: 10/9 | Page No: 1032-1042

Publication Timeline

Submitted: 2025-09-10

Accepted: 2025-09-16

Published: 2025-10-25

Abstract

Fluted pumpkin (Telfairia occidentalis) is a leafy vegetable cultivated and consumed for its valuable nutrients and minerals, which are effective against micronutrient deficiencies. At the same time, white leadwort (Plumbago zeylanica) is an important medicinal plant used in traditional systems of medicine to treat gonorrhoea, syphilis, tuberculosis, rheumatic pain, swellings, piles, diarrhoea, skin diseases, and leprosy. They possess antibacterial and anti-fungal properties. Dried samples and extracts of fluted pumpkin (Telfairia occidentalis) and white leadwort (Plumbago zeylanica) were analysed for protein, fat, fibre, carbohydrate, moisture, and ash. Pumkin had a higher value for moisture content (43.11%) and a lower value for fat (1.97%), while Leadwort had a higher value for fibre (31.76%) and a lower value for protein (4.82%). Phytochemical analysis of pumpkin constituent Alkaloids (0.81%), Saponins (0.59%) and flavonoids (0.04%), while that of lead-wort was Alkaloids (0.39%), Saponins (0.68%) and flavonoids (0.03%). Fluted pumpkin (Telfairia occidentalis) showed a higher percentage of phytochemical content than white leadwort (Plumbago mechanical). Therefore, both Telfairia occidentalis and Plumbago zeylanica may be considered as rich in proximate and phytochemical and potential

Keywords

Fluted pumpkin (Telfairia occidentalis) is a leafy vegetable cultivated

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