Ethno-botanical survey and phytochemical analysis of Moringa oleifera in mubi local government of Adamawa state

Abstract

Moringa oleifera (Lam) is a small tree, medium-sized about 10m high, perennial softwood tree with timber of low quality pantropical species. Moringa oleifera (Lam) is the most widely cultivated species of a monogenetic family, the Moringaceae that is native to the sub-Himalayan tracts of India, Pakistan, Bangladesh and Afghanistan, it also now naturalizes in West Africa and Nigeria as a whole. Survey was conducted among two (2) traditional medical practitioners at the three selected locations. In all, 6 traditional medical practitioners were questioned using an interview guide with eight questions. The ethnobotanical survey revealed that various plant parts can be used to relief various sickness (Malaria, Fever, Stomach pain etc.) with the leaves (40) being the most frequently used part. Phytochemical analysis of most used part of the plant were carried out which revealed the presence of major classes of secondary metabolites, namely; saponins, tannins, alkaloids, phenols, glycosides and flavonoids. Further research should be carried out to extract the active component in Moringa oleifera which will serve as a potential medicine for the phytotherapeutic arsenal.