Photochemical Screening, Proximate Analysis and Peroxide Value of Leaves and Fruits of the tree Cassia fistula (L)

Abstract

Although, the World Health Organization has recommended the use of traditional medicine, only a limited number of medicinal plants have received detailed scientific scrutiny. Thereby this area should be comprehensively investigated. The tree Cassia fistula is used extensively in various parts of the world against a wide range of ailments, the synergistic action of its metabolite production being most probably responsible for the plant’s beneficial effects. This study investigated a photochemical screening, proximate analysis, and peroxide value in leaves and fruits of Cassia fistula. Qualitative screening for photochemical showed the presence of saponins, tannins, flavonoids, alkaloids, and sterols. Proximate analysis of the leaves showed 5.25% moisture, 12.0% ash, 12.39% total protein, 19.63%, crude fiber, 9.38% crude fat, 41.33%, total carbohydrate, 299.39 calorific value, and 0.76: 1.0 fat: protein. Proximate analysis of the fruits showed 3.20% moisture, 4.93% ash, 16.62% total protein, 7.48% crude fiber, 3.06% crude fat, 64.6% total carbohydrate, 352.82 calorific value, and 0.18:1.0 fat: protein. Peroxide value in 75min with antioxidant showed (0.0) value but without antioxidant, it showed (43.3) value. The innumerable medicinal properties and therapeutic and uses of Cassia Fistula as well as its phytochemical investigations prove its importance as a valuable medicinal plant.