Qualitative Determination of the Phytochemical Composition of Ethanolic Extract ofXylopia aethiopica Fruit

Aim: The aim of this study is to qualitatively determine the phytochemical compositions of ethanolic extract of Xylopia aethiopica fruit.

Methodology: The fruits of Xylopia aethiopica were obtained from new market in Aba, Abia State and were identified and authenticated by Prof. (Mrs) Margaret Bassey of the Department of Botany and Ecological Studies, University of Uyo with the voucher number UU/PH/4e. The plant was deposited in the Herbarium of the Department of Pharmacognosy and Natural Medicine, University of Uyo, Akwa-Ibom State. Extraction was done using Soxhlet apparatus using ethanol as the solvent. Qualitative analysis of the phytochemical composition was carried out using standard methods.

Results: The result showed that extract of X. aethiopica fruit contained different phytochemicals such as alkaloids, cardiac glycoside, flavonoid, oxalate, phytate, phenol, saponin, steroid, tannins etc. Lignin and trypsin inhibitor were absent.

Conclusion: The presence of varieties of phytochemicals in X. aethiopica fruit suggests that it will be a potent medicinal plant and support its use in folklore medicine