Phytochemical Properties and Proximate Composition of Asclepias syriacal

Abstract

Asclepias syriaca, commonly called common milkweed is a species of a flowering plant. It has a long history of folklore uses, but has not been explored for commercial purpose. Traditionally the hot water extract is used to treat typhoid fever, among other medicinal uses. Despite its numerous acclaimed uses, its full resources are yet to be tapped. This study carried out the phytochemical screening and proximate analysis of this important ancient plant so as to expose some of its potentials. Enough sample of Asclepsias syriaca was collected from around Bingham University campus in Karu, Nasarawa State, Nigeria. The sample was dried at room temperature (280C) for 2 weeks. The air-dried plant was separated into root, stem, leaves, and flower/ fruits. The dried stem was pulverized using a mechanical blender. The pulverized stem was then subjected to phytochemical screening and proximate analysis, using standard methods. The results of phytochemical screening revealed high concentration of tannins, saponins and glycosides, with alkalloids and phenols present in lesser concentrations. Proximate analysis result yielded protein (31.35%), crude fat (14.85%), carbohydrate (11.50%), moisture content (2.30%). Most of the phytochemical components found in Asclepias syriaca have been documented to have antimicrobial property, hence, the plant could be a potential effective and cheap cure for many infections. The proximate analysis result also confirmed the nutritive value of this multipurpose plant.