Proximate, Vitamin, Mineral and Anatomical Studies on Vitex chrysocarpa Planch ex Benth. (Verbenaceae)

Proximate, vitamin, mineral and anatomical studies were carried out on various parts (Leaf, stem, root and petiole) of Vitex chrysocarpa using standard techniques. Analysis of Variance (ANOVA) was employed in data analysis. The proximate study indicated that the various parts contained all the nutrients assayed but in varied quantities. Crude protein and fat were highest in the leaf (6.93+0.00% and 5.06+0.00% respectively). Crude fibre, ash and moisture were highest in the root (10.91+0.05%, 10.32+0.66%, and 29.23+0.01% respectively). The result revealed also that the various parts contained vitamins and minerals in varied proportions. The leaf contained significantly the highest proportions of zinc, phosphorus, iron, vitamin A and vitamin C (0.38±0.00 mg/100 g, 24.91±0.01 mg/100 g, 10.18±0.00 mg/100 g, 45.06+ 3.24 µg/g, and 13.81 + 3.09 mg/100 g, respectively). Anatomical study showed uniseriate epidermis, non-glandular trichomes in all the parts, presence of diffuse vessels and rays in mature stem. This work, confirmed the plant’s potential uses. These parts could therefore be used as natural food and also extracted for manufacture of food supplements and drugs. Anatomical study is an additional aid to the plant taxonomic characterization and identification.