Mineral Composition and in Vitro Antioxidant activities of extracts of Bambara Groundnut (Vigna subtereanean) and Pigeon Pea (Cajanus cajan) Harvested in Ugep, Yakurr Local Government Area of Cross River State, Nigeria

Abstract

The study evaluates the mineral and antioxidant content of Bambara groundnut (BG) and pigeon pea (PP) and their potential therapeutic benefits. Three different samples were taken: sample A was made up of Bambara groundnuts; sample B was made up of pigeon peas; and sample C was made up of 50% BG and 50% PP. Using accepted techniques, the samples were examined. The study shows that pigeon pea and the mixture (50%BG+50%PP), the mineral composition results indicated that Bambara groundnut had considerably greater levels of calcium, zinc, and potassium (P<0.05). Bambara groundnut and the combined sample, pigeon pea had substantially higher magnesium and iron levels at (p<0.05). Additionally, the mixed sample (50% BG+50% PP) demonstrated a notable increase in sodium when compared to Bambara groundnut and Pigeon pea. When compared to Bambara groundnut and pigeon pea, the combined sample (50%BG+50%PP) significantly increased at (p <0.05) the ability to inhibit DPPH, H₂O₂ scavenging activity, and lipid peroxidation. The ferric reducing activity of Bambara groundnut, however, significantly increased at (p>0.05). These medicinal plants' bioactive components have a high concentration of minerals and antioxidants. As a result, BG and PP might be utilized to treat conditions including high blood pressure, osteoporosis, anemia, and arthritis. This study supports the in-vitro study's assertion that Bambara groundnut and pigeon pea are therapeutic in nature. These researches come to the conclusion that the medicinal plants contain antioxidant scavenging capacity that may be advantageous for human health.