Mineralogical, Phytochemical, and Nutritional Study of the Calyces of Bombax Buonopozense P. Beauv (Malvaceae) and Bombax Costatum Pellegr. & Vuillet (Malvaceae)

Abstract

The calyces of Bombax buonopozense and Bombax costatum, widely consumed in Côte d’Ivoire, represent promising yet underexplored sources of bioactive compounds. This study aimed to comparatively evaluate the mineral composition, phytochemical profile, and antioxidant activity of aqueous extracts from the calyces of these two species to support their nutritional and therapeutic valorization. Calyces were collected, dried, and ground prior to aqueous extraction. Mineral analysis was performed using atomic absorption spectrophotometry. Primary and secondary metabolites were quantified through standard colorimetric assays, while antioxidant activity was assessed using the DPPH radical scavenging method. The results revealed that both species are rich in essential minerals, particularly calcium and iron, with higher concentrations observed in B. buonopozense (Ca: 2.7%; Fe: 0.01181%) compared to B. costatum (Ca: 2.5%; Fe: 0.01028%). The extracts exhibited high carbohydrate content (80% for B. buonopozense and 79% for B. costatum) and were particularly rich in phenolic compounds, with significantly higher levels in B. buonopozense (325 mg/g dry matter) than in B. costatum (200 mg/g dry matter). However, substantial levels of antinutritional factors, particularly oxalates, were detected (198.5 mg/g and 154.82 mg/g dry matter, respectively). Both extracts demonstrated significant antioxidant activity, highlighting their potential role in mitigating oxidative stress. In conclusion, Bombax buonopozense and Bombax costatum possess considerable nutritional and pharmacological potential. Nonetheless, the presence of antinutritional compounds suggests the need for optimized processing methods to enhance their safety and bioavailability. This study provides important comparative insights that support the scientific and industrial valorization of these species.