OKRA VARIETIES AND THEIR MINERALS CONTENTS. A PHYTOCHEMICAL PERSPECTIVE

This presence study reveals that both samples A and B of (short and long variety of okra leaves) are rich sources of Tannins, alkaloids, glycosides and saponnins while flavonoids were not observed in both the samples. Similar work reported by (Sharma et al., 2010) which stated that leaves or vegetables are very rich of phytochemicals especially tannins and glycosides. However the study conducted by (Souza et al., 2010) shows that flavonoids were not detected with the extracts from Rumex. And he also stated that a positive result was observed for the extract from Salanum betaceum cav. Tannins and alkaloids are reported to have aantioxidants properties (Souza. et al., 2010). Tannins are antioxidants that contribute to the astringency in vegetables, offering potential health benefits and protecting against oxidative damage, Saponins can have immune-boosting and cholesterol-lowering effects, enhancing the nutritional value of vegetables, Glycosides some glycosides in vegetables may have medicinal properties and can influence taste, aroma, and colour, adding to the diversity of flavours and nutrients. While alkaloids are more commonly found in plants other than vegetables, their presence in certain vegetables can have pharmacological significance and contribute to their unique properties (Geidam et al.,2007). This work also similar to the work reported by (Sharma et al., 2010) who stated that Tannin is considered as a food product in plant vegetable. Tannins decrease the bacterial proliferation by blocking key enzymes at microbial metabolism (Geidam et al., 2007). The increase in zinc content observed in long variety of okra leaves implies that the long variety is a rich source of zinc. The increased in the zinc content observed in this study in long variety compared to the short might be due to varietal difference. Zn deficiency related disorders such as poor immune system, diarrhoea poor physical and mental growth (WHO, 2007). Zn deficiency claims about 4.4% of the total child deaths in the world whereas anaemia is the major reason of post natal death of mothers as well as infants (Black, 2003). The increased in iron content observed in short variety might be as a result of environmental factor such primary sources of air pollution include combustion engines in cars, factories emitting industrial pollutants, and power plants burning coal or other fossil fuels (EPA, 2020). Soil condition and mineral deposits. Iron (Fe), zinc (Zn) and protein deficiency in human is a serious threat not only to the health of individuals but also to the economy of developing nations. Overcoming malnutrition related disorders in the world has been identified as a top priority by a panel of distinguished economists (ACC/SCN, 2004). The increased in Potassium observed in long variety shows that long variety are rich in potassium compared to short variety. This might be due to growth factors (Temperature, moisture etc). Potassium helps regulate blood pressure by balancing the sodium-potassium ratio. Adequate potassium intake is associated with lower blood pressure levels. (Grobbee. et al., 2003). The increased in Sodium observed in short variety compared to the long variety, implies that the short variety are rich source of sodium. This might be due to varietal difference or environmental conditions. High sodium intake is associated with an increased risk of hypertension (high blood pressure). Excess sodium can lead to water retention, impacting blood vessel volume and increasing blood pressure. (MacGregor, et al., 2002).