Assessment of The Proximate, Mineral, Anti-nutrient, and Amino Acid Compositions of the Leaves and Stems of Alternanthera sessilis

Abstract

Aims: This study aimed to provide a comprehensive nutritional evaluation of the leaves and stem of Alternanthera sessilis by determining their proximate composition, mineral profile, anti-nutritional factors, and amino acid compositions, thereby establishing scientific evidence for their dietary and nutritional relevance. The laboratory-based experimental study was carried out over a six-month period at Ekiti State University, Ado-Ekiti, Nigeria.  Fresh Alternanthera sessilis plants were collected, authenticated, and separated into leaves and stem. The samples were cleaned, air-dried, pulverized and analyzed using established analytical protocols. Proximate composition was determined using AOAC methods. Mineral elements were quantified using flame photometry, colorimetry, and atomic absorption spectrometry. Anti-nutritional factors (saponins, tannins, alkaloids, and oxalates) were determined using standard chemical procedures, while amino acid profiles were analyzed by ion exchange chromatography. The leaves contained significantly higher levels of protein (13.30%), ash (16.71%), crude fat (4.76%), and essential minerals than the stem, whereas the stem exhibited higher carbohydrate (51.98%) and crude fibre (18.09%) contents. Potassium, phosphorus, and calcium were the predominant minerals, with favourable sodium–potassium ratios (<1.0) in both plant parts, suggesting potential cardiovascular benefits. Anti-nutritional factors were detected at low concentrations well below harmful limits. A total of eighteen amino acids were identified, with higher total amino acid content in the leaves.  In both samples, the amino acid with the highest concentration was aspartic acid while methionine had the least concentration. The findings position Alternanthera sessilis, especially its leaves, as a highly nutritious, safe, and under-exploited vegetable with strong potential to improve dietary diversity, address micronutrient deficiencies, and support food security in resource-limited populations.