COMPARATIVE SCIENTIFIC STUDIES OF NUTRITIONAL AND MEDICINAL PLANTS OF SOUTHEAST AND NORTH CENTRAL OF NIGERIA

Abstract

This study compared medicinal and nutritional plants in South East and North Central Nigeria between July and December 2023. The aim was to identify high-profile plants for national recognition and scientific recommendation. The study used survey and experimental methods, including phytochemical, mineral, and proximate analysis. Top medicinal plants identified include Bryophyllum pinnatum, Piper guneense, Garcinia kola, and Vernonia amygdalina. Top nutritional plants include Vignia subterranean, Cajanus cajan, Treculia africana, and Colocasia esculenta. The study found subtle differences in phytochemical, proximate, and mineral constituents between plants from the two regions, but these differences were not statistically significant. The study identified potential veritable sources of nutritional substances that can also help prevent diseases, including Ipomoea batatas, Allium cepa, and Moringa oleifera. Top nutritional plants from the study include Treculia africana, Vigna subterranean, and Cajanus cajan. Top medicinal plants include Bryophyllum pinnatum, Vernonia amygdalina, and Garcinia kola. The study recommends mass cultivation of these plants to benefit from their nutritional and medicinal properties, potentially reducing deficiency diseases, neglected tropical diseases, and age-related problems. By adopting and promoting these plants, individuals, schools, and governments can improve public health and well-being.