Ogukwe CE, Amaechi PC and Enenebeaku CK
Qualitative and quantitative phytochemical composition of the flowers and stem sap of Xanthosoma sagittifolium and Colocasia esculenta were evaluated using standard methods. The result showed that the flowers contain saponins (6.61% and 5.50% respectively for the two species). Alkaloids of 6.22 and 9.80% respectively were also obtained from the result. Other Phytoconstituents like flavonoids, glycosides, phenols, steroids, and tannins were also evaluated. The proximate analysis revealed that the flowers contain high protein content (37.87% and 22.56% respectively), high moisture content and crude fat. Colocasia esculenta showed high percentage of total carbohydrate. The flowers of the two species of Cocoyam can therefore serve as spices and source of protein in local meals.
