Morphological and nutritional assessment of leaf, stem and root of Zanthoxylum macrophylla (Rutaceae)

Abstract

Morphological and nutritional studies were carried out on various parts (leaf, stem, root and petiole) of Zanthoxylum macrophylla to determine its taxonomical and nutrient data with regards to morphological and nutritional characters using standard methods. Analysis of variance (ANOVA) was employed in data analyses. Result revealed among other features, the habit of the plant to be tree with prickle stem, imparipinnately compound and reticulate leaves. The various parts contained all the investigated nutrients but in varied quantities. Moisture and fibre were highest in the leaf, (9.40%±0.009) and (14.55%±0.016) of Z. macrophylla respectively. Fat and ash were highest in the stem (10.75%±0.125 and 5.10±0.010) of Z. macrophylla respectively. Both (the stem and the leaf Z. macrophylla) have equal amount of protein (5.95±0.007 and 5.95±0.001) respectively. Results have indicated that these parts of Z. macrophylla are rich in nutrient and could be extracted for the manufacture of food supplements and drugs. The obtained data could be used to enhance proper taxonomic characterisation and identification of the species Z. macrophylla.