Abstract :
Aqueous leaf extracts of Commelina diffusa was evaluated for food value. The results show that the proximate and vitamin compositions of Commelina. Diffusa included mainly moisture (83.36%), carbohydrate (6.32%), vitamin C (44.80 mg/100g dry weight), vitamin B3 (63.18mg/100g) and vitamin B2 (8.30 mg/100g) respectively. The mineral contents of the defatted leaf extracts were found to be Na (69.32mg/100g), Ca (232.00mg/100g) and Mg (84.28mg/100g). The proximate, vitamin and mineral compositions obtained suggest that the leaves, as cheap sources of vitamins C, B3 and B2, as well as other macro-and micronutrients, can be incorporated into human and animal diet to meet their recommended daily allowances. The content of flavonoids and vitamin C in the leaf extracts also suggests possible anti-oxidant effects of these leafy vegetables.
Keyword :
Commelina diffusa Burm f., Proximate Vitamins, Antioxidants, Minerals