Nutritional qualities and phytochemical constituents of Clerodendrum volubile, a tropical non-conventional vegetable

The nutritional qualities and phytochemical properties of Clerodendrum volubile, an under-utilized leafy vegetable in Nigeria were studied. Proximate analysis showed a high percentage of crude protein and ash contents (12.14%), Nitrogen Free Extract (NFE) had a higher percent (11.2%), while the highest percentage was observed in Dry matter (DM) content (93.3%). Mineral analysis revealed high contents of sulphur, chlorine, manganese, iodine, and zinc, with sulphur content being the highest (131.45 mg/kg). A very high content of vitamin A was observed in the leafy vegetable, high contents of ascorbic acid and cyanocobalamin were also observed while Niacin and Pyridoxine contents were moderately high. Phytochemical analysis showed a high concentration of phenol (4.13%), this was followed by saponin (2.54%). A low concentration was observed in alkaloids (0.79%), while tannin had the lowest concentration (0.15%). Results from this study indicate that the leafy vegetable can serve as a good nutritional source in combating malnutrition. The presence of bioactive compounds is an affirmation of the use of this leafy vegetable in the management of various ailments, and thus may serve as a source of ingredient to the pharmaceutical industries.