Comparative Phytochemical Analysis of the Leaves and Stem of Five Species of Sida L.

Abstract

This study is aimed at evaluating the qualitative phytochemical constituents of the leaf and stem of five common species of Sida collected in Uyo metropolis. These species are medicinal plants used in folk medicine for the management of testicular swelling, elephantiasis, skin disease, fever, ulcer and urinary disease. Phytochemical screening was carried out on Sida acuta Burm. f, Sida stipulata Cav., Sida rhombifolia L., Sida corymbosa R. E. Fr. and Sida sp. using standard methods. Saponins, Tannins and Cardiac glycosides were present in the stem and leaves of all the five species. However, Tannins were strongly present in the leaves while Cardiac glycosides were strongly present in the stems of all the five species. Trace amounts of Phlobatannins were also present in the leaves and stems of all species. Terpenoids were present only in the leaves of S. rhombifolia and absent in all others. The strong presence of Saponins in both stem and leaf extracts as well as the presence of alkaloid in the leaves of Sida sp. differentiated it from the other four species.  The taxonomic implication of this is discussed in the work. The presence of these phytochemicals also lends credence for their usage in folk medicine.