Minerals Composition of Solanum aethiopicum L. and Amaranthus hybridus L. Leaves from Burkina Faso

Aim: Malnutrition remains a public health problem in children aged under five years in Burkina Faso. Research to find indigenous vegetables with high content of minerals can contribute to fight against children malnutrition. The aim of this study was to assess minerals composition of Solanum aethiopicum L. and Amaranthus hybridus L. leaves grown in Burkina Faso.

Methodes: The leaves have been collected in three markets of Ouagadougou. For the two plants, the dry leaves have been analysed for the following minerals content: Potassium (K), Calcium (Ca), Magnesium (Mg), Sodium (Na), Phosphor (P), Iron (Fe) and Zinc (Zn). The analyses have been done using the atomic absorption spectrophotometer and flame photometer methodes.

Results: The results showed high mean concentration in K, Ca and Mg in the leaves of the two plants. For Solanum aethiopicum leaves, the concentration in K, Ca and Mg was respectively 3064; 1048 and 666 mg/100 g. The trace elements content were also high: Fe (12 mg/100 g) and Zn (20 mg/100 g). For Amaranthus hybridus leaves, the concentration in K, Ca and Mg was respectively 3573; 606 and 475 mg/100 g. The leaves of Solanum aethiopicum had the highest content of following minerals: Ca, Mg, Na, P, Fe and Zn compared to Amaranthus hybridus leaves.

Conclusion: This study showed that both plants are good sources of important minerals. They are essential to be included in the diet of children to promote growth and contribute to fight against malnutrition.