Asian Journal of Chemical Sciences

6(3): 1-13, 2019; Article no.AJOCS.48244 ISSN: 2456-7795

Evaluation of the Chemical and Oil Composition of Balsam Apple ( balsamina) seed

B. I. Yerima1* and A. Umar1

1Department of Chemistry, Gombe State University, P.M.B 127, Tudun Wada, Gombe State, Nigeria.

Authors’ contributions

This work was carried out in collaboration between both authors. Author BIY designed the study, wrote the protocol and wrote the first draft of the manuscript while author UA managed the analyses of the study, literature searches and statistical analysis. Both authors read and approved the final manuscript.

Article Information

DOI: 10.9734/AJOCS/2019/v6i318998 Editor(s): (1) Dr. Md. Zakir Hossen, Professor, Department of Agricultural Chemistry, Faculty of Agriculture, Bangladesh Agricultural University, Bangladesh. Reviewers: (1) Claudia Yolanda Reyes, University of the Amazon, Colombia. (2) Dr. Rupali Sengupta, SNDT Women’s University, India. Complete Peer review History: http://www.sdiarticle4.com/review-history/48244

Received 10 February 2019 Original Research Article Accepted 14 April 2019 Published 18 October 2019

ABSTRACT

This research is aimed at the proximate chemical analysis of Momordica balsamina seeds with some properties of the oil. The results of the study showed that the seeds has high percentage of crude lipids, (38.77±0.15%) crude carbohydrates, (31.46±0.14%), crude proteins, (20.25±0.10%), moisture content, (5.25±0.25) and crude fibre, (1.67±0.20) as the least, with calorific value of (486.22Kcal) and some selected minerals Na, Mg, Ca, Fe with the concentration, 7.5, 61.5, 42, and 6.2(mg/100 g) respectively. So also, the oil indicated to have acid value of 0.426 and Saponification value of 183.4.Hence Momordica balsamina seeds could be a good source of food supplement.

Keywords: Composition; evaluation; Momordica balsamina; minerals.

1. INTRODUCTION irregular existence of the which looks as if they have been bitten; mordeo a Latin word Momordica balsamina with the genus means bit. But Jackson [1] did not agree with Momordica refers to a seed that is sculptured or this explanation. Balsam was derived from the ______

*Corresponding author: E-mail: [email protected], [email protected];

Yerima and Umar; AJOCS, 6(3): 1-13, 2019; Article no.AJOCS.48244

Latin balsamum and refers the one of the Carbohydrates performs vital role in living curatives uses of the . organisms. Sugar notably glucose are essential intermediates in the conversion of food to The English translation of the name balsam energy. Carbohydrate can be classified into apple also known in “Hausa language” as simple sugar and complex sugar. “garahunu”and in “Waja language”in northern part of Nigeria as “kakandi”. They are recognized Simple sugars are crystalline soluble in water by the seeds that are always enveloped in bright and sweet taste. Structurally they can be red pulp. Most of these are in tropical subdivided into monosaccharide example Africa. glucose and disaccharide example sucrose.

Meeuse [2] reported that, this Momordica Complex sugars are also known as balsamina species is not discussed in any of the polysaccharide. They are non-crystalline, common standard horticultural books on native insoluble and tasteless substance, example South African plants. Though, its natural starch and cellulose. environment and ecology can be used as guiding principle. The Balsam apple can be Glucose is the first products of photosynthesis; grown-up from seed in wide areas of land before the process whereby green plants manufacture the undeveloped plants can be protected against food. In this process carbon (iv) oxide and water drought, severe frost and intense sunlight. As a are combined to form glucose (C6H12O6), the climber, the stems the need to be supported give energy required for reaction comes from the an eye-catching effect to the viewers. sunlight [5].

Sunlight Momordica balsamina plant is widely distributed 6CO2 + 6H2O + Energy C6H12O6 + 6O2 throughout the entire areas of the local Chlorophyll government of the state of Gombe in Nigeria. 1.2.2 Protein

1.1 Background of study Every dynamic function of living being depends on proteins, in-short the importance of proteins Seeds of plants play a very important role in cannot be over emphasized in living organism. providing essential vitamins and minerals for Proteins are mainly use as building materials by proper maintenance of human health [3]. living things specially animals. Some protein speeds up a chemical reaction while others play According to Hussain et al. [4] the nutritional in storage, transport, cellular communication, value of seed of plant are rich in vegetable oils, movement and defense against foreign proteins and some mineral in addition provides substance. medicine. And since no available studies was done on proximate analysis of Momordica Life would not be possible without enzymes; balsamina seed, it would be a welcome idea to most of which are proteins as reported by determine the proximate chemical analysis of the Jackson [1]. Momordica balsamina seed, to obtain a data base for more elaborate studies on the seed. 1.2.3 Fats and oils

Fats are the main content of the storage fats 1.2 Chemical Composition cells in animals and are often of important food reserves for animals. The main source of fats is A short description of the chemistry of the from animals. Fat-lipids refers to as oil and can chemical component of these studies is given be obtained from plants such as Corn oil, Palm below. oil and butter. Chemically, fats and oil are carboxylic ester derive from single alcohol, 1.2.1 Carbohydrates glycerol, HOCH2CH2OHCH2OH and are known as glycerides as reported by Morrison and Boyd Carbohydrate is one the group of organic [5]. compounds that have the general formula Cx(H2O)y. For example fructose obtained from 1.2.4 Tannins fruits is often written with the formula C6H12O6 which can be presented as Cx (H2O)y where x is Katie and Richard [6] reported that, tannin (also 6 and y is 6 too. called organic, vegetable, natural tannins or

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sometimes called tannoid that is a biomolecule 1.2.6 Phytate different from modern synthetic tannin) is astringent, normally bitter plant containing Phytic acid with the molecular formula polyphenolic compound that fixes to and C6H18O24P6, inositol hexakisphosphate (IP6) precipitates proteins together with many other Inositol-polyphosphate 5-phosphatase or phytate organic compounds together with amino acids when in salt arrangement), is the primary storing and alkaloids. form of phosphorus in several plant tissues, exclusively fiber and seeds. It can be available in The tannins are widely scattered in many cereals and grains. Phytate is not consumable to species of plants, where they play a role in the humans’ beings or non-ruminant animals, hence protection from possible predation, and possibly it is not a source of any inositol or phosphate if serving as pesticides and in plant growth consumed directly. Furthermore, phytic acid regulation as hormone. The astringency from the chelates and thus makes unobservable, certain tannins causes the dry and puckery feeling in the important negligible minerals like zinc and iron, mouth following the consumption of unripe and macro minerals such as calcium and or red wine. Likewise, the annihilation or magnesium; phytic refers unambiguously to the adjustment of tannins by means of time plays a calcium or magnesium salt form of phytic acid, vital portion in the maturing of fruit and the [8]. rancidity of wine. 1.3 Aim and Objectives of the Study Fundamentally, tannins are spread in species throughout the plant kingdom. They are normally 1.3.1 Aim available in both gymnosperms as fit as angiosperms. Most families of dicot comprise tannin-free species (which are confirmed by their The study aim is to determine the proximate ability to precipitate proteins). The most plentiful chemical content of Momordica balsamina seed polyphenols are the condensed tannins, found in and some properties of the oil in the seed almost all families of plants, and containing up to comparing it with some related reported 50% of vegetations that are dehydrated. literature.

Tropical woods tannins tend to possess a 1.3.2 Objectives potential purifying nature rather than that of the Gallic type existing in temperate woodlands The study would be carried out through the plants. following objectives;

1.2.5 Oxalates a. Determine the water content of Momordica balsamina seed. Streitwieser et al. [7], reported that oxalate with b. Determine the mineral content of the seed. 2- the molecular formula C2O4 are found in c. Determine oil content of the seed. numerous plants, wherever it is synthesized via d. Determine the crude proteins of the seed. the partial oxidation of carbohydrates. Oxalate- e. Determine the crude fibre of the seed. rich plants comprises of plants like fat hen f. Determine the percentage of oil content ("lamb's quarters"), sorrel, along with several the seed. oxalis species. Additional “edible plants that contain significant concentrations of oxalates in 1.4 Limitation of the Study decreasing order as follows star fruit (carambola), black pepper, parsley, poppy seed, This research was carried out on proximate amaranth, spinach, chard, beets, cocoa, chemical analysis of Momordica balsamina chocolate, mostnuts, most berries, fishtail palms, seeds and some physical properties of its oil. New Zealand spinach (Tetragonia And the samples were collected only in Gombe tetragonioides) and beans. Leaves of the tea state of the Nigeria. plant (Camellia sinensis) contained the greatest measured concentrations of oxalic acid relative 1.5 Significance of the Study to other plants. However, the beverage derived by fermentation in hot water typically holds only The plants Momordica balsamina has been low to moderate amounts of oxalic acid per known with its bitter edible leaves, this study will serving due to the insignificant mass of leaves help to know whether the seed will be nutritive or used for brewing” [7]. not.

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Momordica balsamina plant is a perennial had been used to bring abortion. However, the clambering plant producing annual stems that leaves are locally known to be fit for human can grow up to 4-5 meters long from a fibrous consumption. perennial roots stock. The stems sometimes sprawl over the ground but can also be support 1.7 Description of the Seed themselves on other plant by means of tendril. The seed is 0.7 cm by 1.1 cm long that The plant can also be cultivated in almost all corresponds to what has been reported in the tropical areas as vegetable. According to Nelson literature by Watt and Breyer-Brandwijk [10].The et al. [9] Momordica balsamina is “tendril bearing seeds is oval in shape compressed up to 11mm annual native to tropical regions of Africa, (1.1 cm) lengthy, light brown superficial introduced and invasive to Asia, Australia and sculptured, enclosed in a sticky, crimson red central America. It has a pale yellow, deeply freshly casing that is eatable and sweet tasting veined and round somewhat warty, similar to water melon. The seed when fully bright orange fruits or “Apple” when ripe the fruit dried, it’s hard to break and remove the inner bust apart, revealing numerous seeds covered seed which could be one of the reason people with brilliant scarlet, extremely sticky coating.” do not go for it.

The balsam apple was made known to Europe in 1.8 Related studies 1568 and was used commonly for to treat wounds and de-worming of little children. It’s generally a fact that plants have substantial curative and nutritional worth. The fact is not left The plant can be found in a sunny and semi- out the case of Momordica balsamina plant. shaded location in grass land, savannah as well as in river bank vegetation. According Thakur et al. [11]. Momordica The local plant used for this finding were grown balsamina contains “wide spectrum of medicines in a loamy type of soil which corresponded to used and nutritional value, has been used as a what has been reported in literature. The leaves traditional fork medicine in many countries. The of this plant are almost oval with deep veins, fruit, seed, leaves and bark of the plant contains green in colour and is known with its bitter taste, resins, alkaloids, flavonoids, glycosides, which could be one of the reasons why is eaten steroids, terpenes cardiac glycoside, saponins locally as vegetables. The leaves of this plant having various medicinal importance via anti- have been reported to be 9×12cm broadly ovate HIV, anti-plasmodial, shigellocidal, anti- and 5-7 lobed which agrees with the local plant inflammatory, anti-oxidant and analgesic used for this finding (www.feediapia.org). properties. The leaves are also important source of nutrients, having 17 amino acids with This plant, due to its perennial nature it is adequate mineral composition like potassium, somehow considered as weed, since it required magnesium, phosphorous, calcium, sodium, almost no effort to cultivate it. Therefore, where zinc, manganese and iron. It also helps to is not needed it should not be introduced combat the problem of micronutrient in the soil because it will be hard to eliminate it once it and high value of proteins and fat with low fibre started producing its fruits there. content. High potassium content is a good source for the management of hypertension and 1.6 Descriptions of the Fruits other cardiovascular conditions. This plant has been promoted as a protein supplement for The average fruit size of balsam apple is cereal-based diet in poor rural communities.” approximately 3 inches long, egg molded, piercing, bumpy, ridged and golden yellow to Hassan and Umar [12], reported the estimated bright orange as soon as it’s ripped. When chemical content of the leaves and the studies maturing the fruit breakdowns, shattering open shows high moisture content of 71.00±0.95% long the three valves of the fruit. The orange fresh weight, protein 11.29±0.07% carbohydrate colored pulp encompasses the seed that are 39.05±2.01%, ash content 18.00±0.56% crude covered by a bright red surgery tissue that fibre 29.00±1.23% crude lipid 2.66±0.13% and encircle the seed. energy value of 191.16 Kcal/100 g on dry weight.

The fruit has been edible but also poisonous Penuel et al. [13] analyzed estimated the which causes vomiting and diarrhea similarly it composition of mineral elements and anti-

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nutrients in Citrullus vulgaris (guna) seed. been used extensively in medicine as a remedy Proximate composition of ‘guna’ showed by for diabetes and as a food in Asian countries. It percent dry matter of moisture, fat/lipid, crude produces high level of α-eleosteric acid [C18:3, protein, ash, crude fibre, carbohydrate, for (9Z, 11E, 13E)] (59%), having an unusual undefatted, defatted and protein concentrates. conjugated fatty acid. The exact location of The elements in mg/100 g include; sodium, double bond in unsaturated fatty acids in the calcium, zinc, iron, copper, manganese and seed oil of is defined by chromium, but chromium was not detected in Gas chromatography. This was reflected in the any of the three samples. The anti-nutrients higher refractive index (1.4995) and higher determined were phytate, oxalate and tannin, in melting point of the oil. The oil is unusual in undefatted, defatted and protein concentrate. composition, since the fatty acids consist almost Tannin was not detected in any of the flour entirely of α-eleosteric acid (59%) and stearic samples. acid (23%). There is less than 10% each of palmitic, oleic, and linoleic acids. The acid value, Fila et al. [14] determined the nutritional the saponification value and the iodine value quality/contents of the pulp, seeds and rind of were 1.854 mg/g KOH, 185.08 mg/g and citrullus lanatus, Nnephelium lappaceum and 129.06/100 g, respectively. The presence of a Cucurbita pepo. The study was carried out on high amount of α-eleosteric acids, low acid both fresh and dried samples. Results of the value, high saponification value, moderate iodine investigation revealed that the seeds of the fruits value are promising indicators of the potential of were all rich in oil and protein. Although there Momordica charantia seed oil as a good drying was a significant changes (p<0.05) in the oil for the paint and coating industry”. nutrient contents i.e. protein, carbohydrate, crude fat, crude protein, moisture and ash 2. MATERIALS AND METHODS content in the different parts of the fruits, the 2.1 Sampling nutrients in the seeds and rind which are the parts always discarded, can contribute The Momordica balsamina L. seed were immensely to recommended daily allowance and collected randomly handpicked from Gelengu maintenance of good nutritional status and town in Balanga L.G.A of Gombe state, it was hence good health for both man and livestock. transported to the laboratory in a polythene bag. The hard cover of the seed was removed and Lucky et al. [15], reported the proximate analysis dried at temperature 105-110ºC. Before the of seeds of Citrullus lanatus which indicated high various analyses were carried out on the concentration of carbohydrate, protein and fat samples, they were crushed to fine powder using while metal analysis showed the presence of pestle and mortar. sodium, calcium, zinc, magnesium at levels within the recommended dietary intake. Antiulcer 2.2 Materials / Reagent potential of the extract against acetylsalicylic acid induced ulceration of gastric mucosa of All the materials reagent used for this study were Wister rats was evaluated at three doses (200 of analytical grade. mg/kg, 400 mg/kg, and 800 mg/kg). The ulcer Petroleum ether, Sulphur acid (98%) 40% parameters investigated included ulcer number, solution of NaOH (sodium hydroxide),4% ulcer severity, and ulcer index and percentage Sodium sulphate solution, ethanol, and FeCl3. ulcer protection. The antiulcer activity was compared against ranitidine at 20 mg/kg. The 2.3 Apparatus extract exhibited a dose related antiulcer activity with maximum activity at 800 mg/kg (P<0.001). Kjeldahl digestion, distillation apparatus, flacks, The study results concluded that proximate and Kjeldahl flacks, drying oven, dryers, crucible metal content analysis of the seeds provides furnace, Extraction thimbles, Solvent extractor information that the consumption of the seeds of apparatus, weighing balance, atomic absorption Citrullus lanatus is safe. spectrophotometer, heating mantle, beaker and desiccator. Arora and Chaudhary [16] determined the potential source of α–eleosteric acid of 2.4 Samples Analysis Momordica charantia seed oil Momordica 2.4.1 Proximate analysis charantia or Bitter gourd, also known as Balsam pear or Karela, is a tropical vegetable, and has The analysis was done in triplicates.

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2.4.2 Determination of moisture content rounded bottom flask with low boiling n-hexane (69ºC) using solvent extractor for about 8hours. The sample was dried in an oven and the The solvent was recovered by rotator moisture was determined by the weight variance evaporator. Then the flask and its content were between dry and wet materials. The moisture placed in an oven at 90ºC for 2 hours and it was content determination was carried following the cooled in desiccators and weighed. The method described by Udo and Ogunwale [17]. 5 percentage of crude lipid was calculated as g of the sample (Momordica balsamina seeds) follows: - were weighed (W1) into a pre-weighed crucible (W0) and was positioned into a hot drying oven Crude lipids content (%) = (W1-Wo) /W2× 100 at 105ºC. The procedure of drying, cooling and 3.0.3 weighing were repetitive until a stable weighed (W2) was attained. The weight loss owing to Where moisture content was attained by the equation. W0= weigh of clean dry flask (g) Moisture content (%) = (W1-W2)/ W2-W0 × 100 W1= weigh of flask with fat (g) 3.0.1 W2= weigh of sample (g)

Where: - 2.4.5 Determination of crude fibre

W0 = weight of the empty crucible, (g) This method gives the crude fibre content of the W1= weight of the wet sample +empty sample afterward it has been digested in crucible, (g) sulphuric acid and sodium hydroxide solution W2= weight of a dried sample +empty and the residue calcined. The difference in crucible, (g) weigh after calcinations shows the quality of the fibre existing. 2.4.3 Determination of ash content The percentage of crude fibre was determined This method is used to determine ash foodstuff by technique described by Udo and Ogunwale by calcinations. The method use was described [17]. 2 g of the sample was weighed (W0) into a 3 by Barminas and Emmanuel [18] where 2 g of 1dm conical flask and 20% of H2SO4 acid was the powdered sample were weighed (W1) into a added and boiled gentle for 30 minutes. The pre-weighed crucible (W0) and placed in a muffle content was filtered through Whatman No 1 filter furnace and allowed to totally ash at 600ºC. paper. The residue was scrapped back to the The ash was removed and cool in a desiccator flask with spatula and filter paper rinsed with 3 and weighed (W2). The weight of the sample distilled water. 20 cm of 10% NaOH was added was determined by the variance between the and allowed to boil gently for 30 minutes. The ash sample and pre-weighted crucible; content was filtered, and the residue was washed with HCl and rinsed with petroleum Ash content (%) = W2-W0 × 100 3.02 ether. It could be dried and scrapped into a W1-W0 crucible and allowed to dry over night at 100ºC in an oven. It was then removed and cooled in Where desiccators. The weighed (W ) was ash at 600ºC 1 for 90 minutes”. It was detached and cooled in W0= weight of empty crucible, (g) desiccators and re-weighed (W2). The W1= weight of fresh sample + empty crucible, (g) percentage of crude fibre was computed as W = weight of dried sample +empty crucible, follows; 2 (g) Crude lipids content (%) = (W1-W2)/ Wo ×100 2.4.4 Determination of crude lipids 3.0.4

In this method, the fats extracted from the Crude fiber content (%) = (W1-W2) W0× 100 sample with n-hexane, was evaluated as a 3.0.5 percentage by weight. The crude lipid content in the sample was extracted using Soxhlet Where extractor, the technique adopted was described by Udo and Ogunwale [17]. 5 g of the sample W0= weight of sample, (g) was folded in filter paper and positioned in an W1 = weight of dried sample, (g) extractor and extracted into a pre-weighed W2= weight of ash sample, (g)

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2.4.6 Determination of the of crude protein not make a distinction between obtainable and unobtainable protein. The crude protein was The crude protein of the sample was determined computed by the following equation: - by means of the micro Kjeldhal method, described by Association of Official Analytical % crude protein= % nitrogen× 6.25 3.0.7 Chemists (AOAC) [19]. The principle of this technique is created on transformation of protein The nitrogen content is given by the formula; nitrogen comprising organic compounds, other than nitriles and nitrates into ammoniumsulphate % N = (Tv× N × 0.014 × V1)/ G × V2 × 100 through acid digestion 3.0.8 catalyst Where

Samplenitrogen+H2SO4(aq) (NH4)2SO4(aq) 3 3.0.6 Tv =titre volume of acid (cm ) N = concentration of acid (NH4)2SO4(aq) + 2NaOH 2NH3(aq) + 2H2O V1 = volume of distilled water used for 3 + Na2SO4(aq distilling the digest (50 cm ) V2 = volume of the aliquot used for distillation + - 3 NH3(aq) + H3BO3(aq) NH4 (aq) + H2BO3 (aq) (10 cm ) G = original weight of sample used in gram. + - H (aq) + H2BO3 (aq) H3BO3(aq) 2.4.7 Determination of carbohydrates content “2 g of the sample was weighed along with 20 cm3 of distill water into micro Kjeldhal digestion The technique described by Barminas and flask. It was shaken and allowed to stand for Emmanuel [18] was implemented, where the some time and tablet of selenium catalyst was total quantity of carbohydrates in the seed added followed by the addition 20 sample was gotten by computation using the cm3concentrated sulfuric acid. The flask was percentage weight by subtracting the % sum of heated on the digestion block until the content the food nutrient; % crude lipids, % crude became clear. The flask was removed from the protein, % crude fibre and % ash from 100%, block and allowed to cool. The content was using the following equation: - transferred into a 50 cm3 volumetric flask and diluted to the mark with distilled water. An aliquot %Carbohydrate=100 ─ (%crude protein + % of the digestion (10 cm3) was transferred into crude fibre + % ash +moisture) 3.0.9 another micro Kjeldhal flask along with 20cm3 of 2.4.8 Calorific values distilled water and placed in the distilling outlet of the micro Kjeldhal distillation unit. A conical 3 The calorific worth was computed by multiplying flask containing 20 cm of boric acid indicator the percentage of crude protein, crude lipid and was placed under the condenser outlet. Sodium 3 carbohydrate by the recommended factors (2.44, hydroxide solution (20 cm , 40%) was added to 8.37 and 3.57 respectively) reported by Asibbey- the content in the Kjeldhal flask by opening Berko and Tavie [21]. funnel stopcock. The distillation started and heat supplied was regulated to avoid sucking back. Energy (Kcal/100 g) = (%Carbohydrate × 3.57) + When all the available distillate was collected in (% crude protein ×2.44) + (%crude lipid × 8.37) 3 20 cm of boric acid; the distillation was stopped. 3.1.0 The nitrogen in the distillate was determined by titration with 0.01 M of H2SO4. The end point was 2.5 Anti-nutritive Contents Determination obtained when the colour of the distillate change from green to pink as reported by Gafar and 2.5.1 Tannins Itodo [20]. Tannin percentage was measured using the Crude protein is normally a measure of nitrogen technique established by Trease and Evans [22] in each sample. It’s calculated by multiplying the where 0.5 g of the dehydrated sample was total nitrogen content by a regular constant 6.25. heated to boil with 20 ml of water. Which was This is based on the postulation that protein later treated with 0.1% FeCl3 solution where comprises around 16% nitrogen which consist of brownish green or blue-black colour was both protein and non-protein nitrogen and does observed.

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2.5.2 Oxalate made-up to the volume mark with water. The solution was used for the determination of the Oxalate was established using the technique by mineral element of sodium, magnesium, calcium, Day et al. [23] where 1.0 g of the sample was and iron. dissolved in 100 mL of 0.75 M sulphuric acid. The solution was then cautiously stirred with a 2.6.2 Mineral determination magnetic stirrer for 1hr and separated using a filter paper. 25 ml of the filtrate was pipette and Atomic Absorption Spectrophotometry (AAS) was titrated at between (80- 90ºC) against 0.1M model 210VGP Bulk Scientific was used for this KMnO4 to neutralize when a faint pink colour analysis. This gives a good exactness and was observed to stay for more than 30 seconds. accuracy as reported by Momoh et al. [26] the The result was calculated using the following principle of the technique is built on nebulizing a equation: - sample solution into an air acetylene flame where it is vaporized. Elemental ions were Oxalate =Tv X (0.225) 3.1.1 atomized, and atoms then absorb radiation of characteristics wavelength from hallow-cathode Where lamp. The absorbance measured, is proportional to the amount of analyte in the sample solution. Tv = Titre value The AAS has a computer containing a soft-ware attached to it. The software interprets the 2.5.3 Phytate absorbance and concentration of the normal solutions and gives the result of the samples as A technique reported by Reddy and Love [24] concentrations. was implemented to determine the approximate phytate content. 4.0 g of dried sample was 2.7 Oil Analysis saturated in 100 ml solution of 2% HCl for 5 hrs and was filtered. 25 ml of the filtrate was pipetted 2.7.1 Determination of acid value into a conical flask which was followed by the addition of 5 ml of 0.3% ammonium thiocyanate The method was described by Campbell [27] (NH4SCN) solution. The mixture was titrated which was implemented, where 25 ml of against 0.1 M FeCl3 until a brownish yellow diethylether and 25 ml of ethanol were mixed in colour end point that persisted for 5mins was 250 ml conical flask and limited drops of obtained. The result was calculated as follows; phenolphthalein were added to the mixture. The mixture was titrated with 0.1 M NaOH to the end Phytate = Tv X (0.1635). 3.1.2 point with continual quaking until dark red colour was detected and the titre volume of (0.1M Where; NaOH) Vo was recorded.

Tv = Titre value The free fatty acid (FFA) was computed as follows: 2.6 Mineral Analysis

FFA =V0/W0× 2.82×100 of 0.1M NaOH = 2.83g The mineral analysis was carried out in soil and oleic acid WO = sample weight. plant analysis laboratory of school of Agriculture in Abubakar Tafawa-Balewa University Bauchi, Then, Nigeria. Acid value = FFA× 2 3.1.2 2.6.1 Sample digestion 2.7.2 Saponification Value (SV) Determination The triplet digestion technique of Pooley [25] was adopted. The dry samples (2 g) was The method adopted in this study was described weighed into a micro Kjeldhal digestion flask by Diamond and Denmark [28]. 2 g of oil sample 3 then 24 cm of a combined mixture of was weighed in 250 ml conical flask followed by 3 3 concentrated HNO3, H2SO4 and 60% HClO4 the addition of 5 cm of alcohol and 20 cm 0.5 were added to the flask. It was heated and alcoholic KOH. 5 cm3 of alcohol and 20 cm3 0.5 digested to a clear solution, cooled and the alcoholic KOH were further added for the blank 3 content moved into 50 cm volumetric flask and and together were reflux for a period of 1 hour.

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After chilling, the content was titrated with 0.5 M and Citrullus Lanatus seeds reported by Fila, et HCl by means of phenolphthalein as indicator. al. [14], Arachis hypogaea seeds (Ayoola et al The variation between that of blank and the [31] with 3.50±0.04%, 4.83±0.4%, 5.00±0.05%, sample is equal to the amount of fatty acid. 2.46%, 1.06%, 3.07%, 1.38%, respectively and

3 lower than Irvingia gabonensis seeds 9.5±0.3% 0.5M KOH = 28.05 g/dm . The (SV) value was reported by Ekpe et al. [32]. The high ash calculated afterward using the expression:- content of Momordica balsamina seed signifies

its potentiality of high mineral content. SV = 56.1N (V0– V1)/ M 3.1.3

Where:- 3.1.3 Crude fibre content

V0 = volume of acid solution used for blank. The crude fiber as shown in Table 4.1, indicated V1 = volume of acid solution used for the sample. the crude fiber to be 1.67±0.20% very lower N = normality compared with the leaves crude fiber M = mass of sample. 29.00±1.23% of Momordica balsamina [12], Citrullus Lanatus seeds 12.0±0.1% reported by 3. RESULTS AND DISCUSSION Fila et al. [14], Pennisetum glaucum 7.8%, Sorghum bicolor 4.7% Zea mays 5.5%, Triticum The results of proximate analysis are presented aestivum. on Table 4.1, anti-nutrient content in Table 4.2, mineral content in Table 4.3 and Table 4.4 result 3.0% [33], Citrullus Vulgaris (Guna) Seeds of oil. 4.00±0.3% [13], Arachis hypogaea seeds 2.43% [31] From the result it will take 1137 g of 3.1.1 Moisture content Momordica balsamina seeds to meet up of dietary requirement of 1-3 year children that Momordica balsamina From Table 4.1, the result means it is not good source of fibre for indicated that the moisture content of Momordica preventing constipation and hemorrhoids like balsamina seeds is 2.60±0.10% which is lower other nuts and grains do. than Citrillus vilgaris (Guna) seeds, 5.05 ± 0.1,( Penuel et al. [13] 3.50 ± 0.04 of Piliostigma 3.1.4 Crude lipids thonningii seeds as reported by Jimoh and Oladiji [29]. And according to Udo and Ogunwale The seeds of Momordica balsamina contained [17] a seed with less than 8% moisture content 38.77±0.15% crude lipids which show that it is tends to last longer on storage. Hence with suitable source of nutrient that can improve the proper storage Momordica balsamina seeds energy density of man and animals as shown in could be preserve for relatively long time without the Table 4.1. And the result appeared to be decay due to low percentage of water. lower than Citrulus lanatus which was reported to be 47.7% , Pumpkin seed (47.0%), Bush Table 4.1 Summary of Proximate Analysis of mango Seed( 58.00 ±1.00%), Arachis hpogaea Momordica balsamina seeds in percent (groundnut) seeds 43.80% as reported by Ayoola et al. [31] and it has also appeared to S/N Parameter %Composition higher than Soybeans (23.4%) and Piliostigma 1 Moisture content 2.60±0.25% thonningii seeds,1.42 ± 0.03% [29]. 2 Ash content 2.25±0.13% 3 Crude fibre 1.67±0.20% 3.1.5 Crude protein content 4 Crude lipids 38.77±0.15% 5 Crude proteins 20.25±0.10% The crude proteins as summarized in Table 4.1, 6 Carbohydrate content 31.46±0.14% indicated to be 20.25±0.10% with 1.55% lower 7 Calorific value 486.22 Kcal than Groundnut (Arachis hypogaea) seeds as reported by Ayoola et al [31], Piliostigma 3.1.2 Ash content thonmgi seeds 30.33% as reported by Jimoh et al. [29] and greater than Bush mango Table 4.1, showed that ash content of seeds(Irvingia gabonensi) 7.60% [32], millet flour Momordica balsamina seeds is 5.25±0.13% 8.8%, rice 6.3% wheat flour 9.8% and which is higher than Piliostigma thonningii seeds maize7.2% as reported by Barikmo [33]. As reported by Jimoh and Oladiji [29]. Citrullus stated earlier that proteins are important for Vulgaris (Guna) Seeds, (Penuel et al. [13], growth and repair of body cells and for building Moringa oleifera Seed (Aja, et al. [30],Cucurbita of muscle, therefore the seeds of Momordica Pepo’l seeds, Nephelium Lappaceum seeds balsamina is another good source of proteins.

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Table 4.2 Summary of anti-nutritional content of Momordica balsamina seeds (mg/100g) ND= Not detected

Sample Tannins Oxalates (mg/100g) Phytates (mg/100g) Fatted ND 0.126 0.188 Defatted ND 2.085 0.253

Table 4.3 Mineral content of Momordica happens to be the highes,t followed by calcium, balsamina seeds sodium and iron as the least.

Minerals Concentration(mg/100g) 3.2.1 Sodium (Na) Sodium (Na) 7.5 Magnesium (Mg) 61.5 In Table 4.3. The sodium content of Momordica Calcium (Ca) 42.8 balsamina seeds was found to be 7.5 mg/100 g Iron (Fe) 6.2 low when compared with 43.00 mg/100 g of

Table 4.4 summary of oil analysis of Moringa oleifera seeds as reported by Aja et al Momordica balsamina seeds [30] and greater than the seeds extract of Citrullus lanatus Thunb () Colour of oil Light brown 5.70±0.10 mg/100 g Okunrobo et al. [15]. Hence Acid value 0.426 Momordica balsamina seeds could be a good Saponification value 183.4 source of food for hypertensive patients due to its lower Na ion concentration. 3.1.6 Carbohydrate content 3.2.2 Magnesium (Mg) Carbohydrates are the main sources of energy that fuels our body as earlier stated. The crude Magnesium is a cofactor in more than 300 carbohydrates showed in Table 4.1 to be enzymes systems that regulate diverse 31.46±0.14% Lower than Millet flour 77.1%, biochemical reactions in the body, including Sorghum flour 71.5% , Maize 77.8%, Rice proteins syntheses, muscles and nerves 77.1%, Wheat 73.7%, as reported by Jimoh, et function. Rude, [37]. As indicated Table 4.3, the al. [29] and greater than Citrullus lanatus (Egusi) Magnesium content of Momordica balsamina seeds 10.6±0.2% as reported by Ojieh et al. seeds was found to be 61.4 mg/100 g, lower [34] and Groundnut (Arachis hypogaea) 27.19% compare with magnesium content obtained in reported by Ayoola et al. [31]. Citrillus vulgaris seeds reported by Penuel, et al.

[13], 81.00 mg/100 g and greater than the 3.1.7 Phytates and oxalates magnesium obtained in Arachis hypogaea The value of phytate and oxalates obtained in (Groundnut) seeds, 0.21% as reported by Momordica balsamina seeds are indicated in Ayoola et al. [31] Momordica balsamina seeds Table 4.2, 0.188 mg/100 g and 0.126 mg/100 g could be another good source of magnesium. for fatted sample, 0.253 mg/100 g and 2.085 mg/100g for defatted sample was lower than the 3.2.3 Calcium (Ca) phytate obtained in Ebony seed which was reported to be 0.725 mg/100 g phytate as Calcium is very important mineral in human reported by González-Quijada et al. [35], and metabolism making up to about 1-2% of adult’s also lower than some common eaten food like human body weight [38]. From Table 4.3, the Mango, lemon juice Orange,Okro, sweet calcium content of Momordica balsamina seeds potatoes, beans, carrots which was found to was indicated to be 42.8 mg/100 g showed to range from 5-28 mg/100 g oxalates as reported be higher than Citrillus Vilgaris (Guna) seeds, by Holmes and Kennedy, [36] these indicates 33.00 mg/100 g as reported by Penuel et al. [13], that Momordica balsamina seeds could be Arachis hypogaea (Groundnut) seeds, 1.24 edible as other edible seeds like groundnut and mg/100 g [31] and Moringa oleifera seed 14.75 (Egusi) melon seed. mg/100 g as reported by Aja et al. [30].

3.2 Mineral Analysis 3.2.4 Iron (Fe)

Momordica balsamina seeds mineral analysis The iron content in Momordica balsamina are summarized in Table 4.3. Magnesium seeds,6.18 mg/100 g was found to be low

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Yerima and Umar; AJOCS, 6(3): 1-13, 2019; Article no.AJOCS.48244

compared with Pumpkin 48510 mg/100 g and 6. Katie E. Ferrell, Thorington, Richard W. Soybeans, 54830 mg/100 g as reported by Squirrels: The animal answer guide. Osagie and Eka [39] and higher than the iron Baltimore: Johns Hopkins University content obtained in Arachis hypogaea Press. 2006;714. (Groundnut) seeds 0.47% Ayoola et al. [31]. ISBN 0-8018-8402-0 The human body needs iron to make the 7. Streitwieser A, Heathcock CH, Kosower oxygen-caring proteins hemoglobin and EM, Corfield PJ. Introduction to organic myoglobin [40], which means for 6 months chemistry. New York: Macmillan. 1992; babies, 7-12 months babies, 4-8 years, 14-18 643. years male, 14-18 years female, 19-50 years 8. Forbes RM, Parker HM, Erdman Jr JW. adult male and female required 0.4 g, 17.8 g, Effects of dietary phytate, calcium and 16.2 g, 17.8 g, 24.3 g, 12.9 g, and 29.1 g of magnesium levels on zinc bioavailability to Momordica balsamina seeds respectively to rats. The Journal of Nutrition. 1984;114(8): meet up with the recommended dietary 1421-1425. allowance (RDAs) for iron. 9. Nelson LS, Shih RD, Balick MJ, Lampe KF. Handbook of poisonous and injurious 4. CONCLUSION plants. (2nd ed) New York: New York Botanical Garden. 2007;217. In conclusion, Momordica balsamina seeds have 10. Watt JM, Breyer-Brandwijk MG. The high percentage of lipid (38.77±0.15%), high medicinal and poisonous plants of carbohydrates (31.46±0.14%),magnesium (61.5 Southern and Eastern Africa being an mg/100 g) and calcium (42.8 mg/100 g) that account of their medicinal and other uses, shows that it could be a good source of energy chemical composition, pharmacological and for rapid development, repair and building effects and toxicology in man and up the bones for growing children. animal. The medicinal and poisonous plants of Southern and Eastern Africa COMPETING INTERESTS being an account of their medicinal and other uses, chemical composition, Authors have declared that no competing Pharmacological Effects and Toxicology in interests exist. Man and Animal. (Edn 2); 1962. 11. Thakur GS, Bag M, Sanodiya BS, REFERENCE Bhadauriya P, Debnath M, Prasad GBKS, Bisen PS. Momordica balsamina: A medicinal and neutraceutical plant for 1. Jackson WPU. Origins and meanings of health care management. Current names of South African plant genera. Part Pharmaceutical Biotechnology. 2009; 1pteridophytes, gymnosperms and 10(7):667-682. monocotyledonous angiosperms. Part 2: 12. Hassan LG, Umar KJ. Nutritional value of Dicotyledons. Rondebosch: Ecolab, c/o Balsam Apple (Momordica balsamina L.) Botany Department, UCT.1990;189. leaves. Pak. J. Nutr. 2006;5(6):522-529. ISBN 799212849 13. Penuel BL, Khan EM, Maitera MO. 2. Meeuse ADJ. The Cucurbitaceae of Properties of proximate composition and Southern Africa. Bothalia, 1962;8(1):1- elemental analysis of Citrullus Vulgaris 111. (Guna) seed. Bulletin of Environment, 3. Grosso NR, Guzman CA. Chemical Pharmacology and Life Sciences. 2013; composition of aboriginal peanut (Arachis 2(2):39-46..lle hypogaea L.) seeds from Peru. Journal of 14. Fila WA, Itam EH, Johnson JT, Odey MO, Agricultural and Food Chemistry. 1995; Effiong EE, Dasofunjo K, Ambo EE. 43(1):102-105. Comparative proximate compositions of 4. Hussain SA, Dollear FG, O’connor RT. Oil watermelon Citrullus lanatus, squash from the kernels of lalob fruit, Balanites Cucurbita pepo’l and rambutan Nephelium aegyptiaca. Journal of the American Oil lappaceum. International Journal of Chemists’ Society. 1949;26(12):730-732. Science and Technology. 2013;2(1):81-88. 5. Morrison RT, Boyd RN. Organic chemistry, 15. Lucky OO, John UO, Kate IE, Peter OO, sixth ed. Prentice-Hall International Jude OE. Quantitative determination, Editions, New York University; 1992. Metal analysis and Antiulcer evaluation of

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