Evaluation of the Nutritional and Bioactive Components in Dialium guineense Ethanol Seed Extract
Uyoyoghene O. Isodje *
Department of Biochemistry, Southern Delta University, Ozoro, Delta State, Nigeria.
Onyekachukwu M. Adinkwu
Department of Plant Science and Biotechnology, Southern Delta University, Ozoro, Delta State, Nigeria.
Ferdinard N. Okoh
Department of Biochemistry, Southern Delta University, Ozoro, Delta State, Nigeria.
*Author to whom correspondence should be addressed.
Abstract
Background: The seeds of Dialium guineense are usually discarded after consuming the fruits and are understudied. However, plant seeds are a great source of nutrients and bioactive compounds with great health benefits.
Aim: This study examines nutrient and bioactive compounds present in the seeds of D. guineense.
Place and Duration of Study: This research was done in the biochemistry department of Southern Delta University, Ozoro, Delta State, Nigeria, between April and September, 2025.
Methodology: Ethanol seed extract of D. guineense was prepared with air-dried seed using the cold extraction method. Nutrient content was evaluated with proximate analysis of D. guineense seed powder using AOAC (Association of Official Analytical Chemists) approved methods. Bioactive components in D. guineense seed extract were evaluated with standard procedures for phytochemical detection.
Results: The seed of D. guineense is composed of 62.88% carbohydrate, 18.40% protein, 13.30% moisture, 2.6% crude fat, 2.1% ash, and 0.72% crude fibre. Bioactive compounds detected in the seeds of D. guineense include Phenol, Saponins, Tannin, Alkaloids, Flavonoid, reducing sugar, Cardiac glycosides, and sterols. Anthroquinone glycoside and Anthocyanins were not detected.
Conclusion: The seeds of D. guineense are rich in nutrients, which can be used to nourish the human system. It also contains bioactive compounds, which have health benefits and should be incorporated into the human diet rather than thrown away as waste.
Keywords: D. guineense, bioactive compounds, phytochemicals, alkaloid, nutritional seeds, phytosterols