PHYTOCHEMICAL SCREENING OF PALM FROND

BY

IBOI HAPPY AST/119200720

IGBEBO BENEDICTA ISOMOFAOGHENA AST/119200688

THOMAS ODUFA GIFT AST/119200802

AJAYI OMOLARA RUTH AST/119200936

EUWAKIGHO CHRISTIAN OGHENEVWAIRE AST/119200080

DICKSON ABIGAIL IDONGESIT AST/119200722

EDORE MATILDA EFELOMO AST/119200981

ASAJU FAVOUR DAMILOLA AST/119200496

EDOGUN MONICA ODEGUA AST/119200475

TYOBAGU ISAAC AST/119200748

SUBMITTED TO THE DEPARTMENT OF SCDIENCE LABORATORY

TECHNOLOGY, SCHOOL OF APPLIED SCIENCE, AUCHI
POLYTECHNIC, AUCHI, EDO STATE

IN PARTIAL FULFILMENT OF THE REQUIRMENTS FOR THE

AWARD OF NATIONAL DIPLOMA (ND) IN SCIENCE LABORATORY
TECHNOLOGY

DECEMBER, 2022

1
 CERTIFICATION

We hereby certify that this project work, photochemical screening of coconut oil
was carried out by

Iboi Happy AST/119200720

Igbebo Benedicta Isomofaoghena AST/119200688

Thomas Odufa Gift AST/119200802

Ajayi Omolara Ruth AST/119200936

Euwakigho Christian Oghenevwaire AST/119200080

Dickson Abigail Idongesit AST/119200722

Edore Matilda Efelomo AST/119200981

Asaju Favour Damilola AST/119200496

Edogun Monica Odegua AST/119200475

Tyobagu Isaac AST/119200748

under close supervision of Mr Ahmad Hussein of the department of science

laboratory technology, Auchi polytechnic. In partial fulfillment of the requirements
of the award of national diploma (ND) in science laboratory technology

Mr Ahmed Hussein DATE

Project supervisor

Mr Abudulkadir N.M DATE

Head of department

2
 ACKNOWLEDGEMENT

We wish to express our sincere gratitude and indebtedness to individuals, groups

and bodies who in various ways contributed meaningfully to the successful
completion of our national diploma

Our unreserved appreciation goes to our gracious, kind and wonderful

supervisor, Mr Ahmed Husseini, for all his support throughout the course of this
project

We also sincerely expressed our unalloyed gratitude and heartfelt

appreciation to God Almighty for his love, support and infinite mercy

Our sincere gratitude also goes to our HOD Mr. Abdulkadir N.M all our
lecturers especially in science laboratory technology for their moral and academic
support,

3
 ACKNOWLEDGEMENT

We are great full to Almighty God for giving us the strength knowledge and

understanding to complete this project.

Our profound gratitude goes to our wonderful supervisor Mr Ahmad Hussaini for

his invaluable support, patience, time and guidance in seeing us to the completion

of this research work.

We also extend gratitude and appreciation to our lectures who have taught us at

one point or the other may God continue to bless, protect and guide you all. Also

Appreciation also goes to our Parents and siblings who have been a source of

inspiration towards our academic pursuit God bless you all.

4
 TABLE OF CONTENT

Title page- - - - - - - - - - - i

Certification- - - - - - - - - - ii

Dedication - - - - - - - - - - iii

Acknowledgment - - - - - - - - - iv

Table of content - - - - - - - - - v

Abstract - - - - - - - - - - vi

CHAPTER ONE
1.0 Introduction - - - - - - - - - 1
1.1 Aims - - - - - - - - - - 4
1.2 Objectives - - - - - - - - 4
1.3 Justification of Study - - - - - - - 4
1.4 Scope of the Study- - - - - - - - 4
CHAPTER TWO
2.0 Literature Review - - - - - - - - 5
2.1 Religious Significance of Coconut Oil- - - - - 6
2.2 Chemical Composition of Coconut Oil- - - - - 7
2.2.1 Parts of the Coconut: water, Copra - - - - - - 8
2.3 Medicinal Value of Coconut Oil - - - - - - 9
2.4 Phytochemical of Coconut Oil - - - - - - - 11
2.5 Health Benefits of Coconut Oil - - - - - - 12
CHAPTER THREE
3.0 Materials and Methods- - - - - - - - 17
3.1 Materials and Apparatus - - - - - - - 17

5
3.2 Chemicals/Reagents - - - - - - - -18
3.3 Collection and Preparation of Oil Sample - - - - 18
3.4 Phytochemical Detection of the Active Components of Coconut Oil 19
CHAPTER FOUR
4.0 Result and Discussion - - - - - - - - 22
4.1 Result - - - - - -- - - - 22
4.2 Medicinal Plants are a Source of Great Economic Value all over the
World. - - - - - -- - - - - 23
CHAPTER FIVE
5.0 Conclusion and Recommendation- - - - - - 25
5.1 Conclusion - - - - - - 25
5.2 Recommendation - - - - - - 26
References - - - - - -- - 27

6
 ABSTRACT
This study tends to analyze the presence of phytochemical properties of coconut
oil. The objectives is to collect and prepare the coconut fruit sample for analysis
and to test for the phytochemical constituents in the fruit sample. Various
phytochemicals such as; Saponin, Tannins, Alkaloids, Flavonoid, Phenols,
Carbohydrates and Anthraquinones was determined. From the result, it was
observed that coconut oil is suitable for the treatment of many debilitating ailments
like cancer diabetes, ulcer, obesity, heart disease and infections due to
microorganisms. However, the medicinal. Pharmacological usage of coco nucifera
is a result of the oil present in it and its non-nutrient (phytochemical) content
which act as antioxidant against dangerous free radicals in the body system. It is
therefore, recommended that advanced studied should be carried out on coconut
oil in terms of mineral composition, while the anti oxidant properties can be
extended quantitatively.

7
 CHAPTER ONE

1.0 INTRODUCTION

Phytochemicals are plants derived chemicals that are used therapeutic agent.

They reduce the risk of cancer due to dietary fibers, polyphenol antioxidants and

anti-inflammatory effects (kinderley, 2017). Photochemicals are produced via

secondary metabolism in relatively small amount (Hasler, 2013). Scientifically,

research is being undertaken to bring to lime light the properties of the

phytochemicals present in plants like cotton, palm e.t.c, and also use them as a

yardstick in modern medicinal plant uses. (Riby, et al., 2011).

An example of such plant is a palm coconut (cocos nucifera linn). It belong

to the family Arecaceae (palmae). Palmae is a vast family consisting of about 217

genera and 2,500 species. Cocos nucitera belongs to the order arecales and it is the

sole species of the genus cocos belonging to the subfamily cocoideae. (Evans,

2013).

One of the primary product from coconut fruit is the coconut oil. It has been

used from time immemorial as functional food and in pharmaceuticals. It is often

referred to as “miracle oil”. The coconut oil is a functional food because it provides

health benefits beyond it‟s nutritional content (Ross, 2017).

8
Acidic Concentration and Medicinal Use of Coconut Oil

Coconut oil consists of a mixture of triyglycerides containing only short and

medium chain saturated fatty acid (92%) and unsaturated fatty acid (8%)

(Reynolds, 2015). Approximately 50% of the fatty acid in coconut fat is lauric acid

(Enig and Fallen, 2012). Lauric acid is a medium chain fatty acid that is broken

down into monolarium in the human body. Monolarium is the active metabolite of

lauric acid (Enig, 2009).

Other medium chain saturated fatty acids present are; caprylic acid (9%),

capric acid (8%), capric acid (5%) and myristic acid (20%) which makes up the

triglyceride molecule and form antimicrobial properties of coconut oil.

The long chain fatty acids include palmitic acid and stearic acid. The fatty acid

portion of the coconut oil is responsible for the anti bacterial, antiprotozoal,

antifungal and anti viral effect of the plant (Fife, 2010).

All over the globe, coconut has been revered as a valuable source of both

food and medicine. In traditional medicine, the coconut is used to treat a wide

variety of health problems such as tumors, asthma, cough, constipation, etc

(Hartwell, 2008-2012).

The palm coconut has been reported to be antidotal, antiseptic, bactericidal,

diuretic, purgative, stomachic and supportive (Duke & Co, 2016).

9
Coconut is useful in the treatment of digestive tract infections and is used in

treatment of stomach upsets, diarrhea and dysentery by indigeneous people of

tropical countries. (Enig, 2011).

It is also used to expel intestinal parasites like tapeworms and Helicobacter pylori

which are responsible for indigestion and ulcer (Fife, 2010).

Importance/ Uses of Coconut Oil

 Relieves dryness of skin

 Provides protection from ultraviolet radiation from the sun

 Treatment of fungal skin infections e.g, ringworms

 Prevent stretch marks

 Used for wounds, burns, bruises, rashes, eczema, and dermatitis (Reynolds,

2015).

 It is an immune system booster in infants (Enig & Co, 2011).

 Prevents obesity and overweight problems by increasing metabolic rate,

thyroid functions and fights fatigue (Award, 2017).

 It improves insulin secretion and enhances utilization of blood glucose

(Garfinkel, et al., 2009)

 Effective in treating and preventing heart diseases and cancer (Fife, 2010)

10
  It reduces inflammation and allergic reaction due to it‟s anti histamic effect

(Iwu, 2014).

1.1 AIMS

To analyze for the phytochemical properties of coconut oil

1.2 OBJECTIVES

i. To collect and prepare the coconut fruit sample for analysis.

ii. To test for the phytochemical constituents in the fruit sample

1.3 JUSTIFICATION OF STUDY

Coconut palm fruit is of great benefit both health wise, as food and even in

industries as it is used in treating several diseases e.g cancer and heart diseases and

also use for making of some furniture in the furniture industry. It also boost energy

needed by the body and give a healthy and fine looking skin. This research is

directed at educating and exposing us to some of the properties of coconut palm

fruit in terms of it‟s phytochemical properties.

1.4 SCOPE OF THE STUDY

This project work will be limited to the screening and analysis of the

phytochemical properties of coconut fruit sample.

11
 CHAPTER TWO

2.0 LITERATURE REVIEW

The origin of coconut palm is the subject of controversy. Indian mythology

credits the creation of palm with its crown of leafy fronds to the sage vishwamitra,

to prop up his friend king Trishanku when the latter was literally thrown out of

heaven by India for his misdeeds (Ghandhi and Singh, 2009 Gupta, 2009). In

vadakurungaduthurai, Lord kulavanangeesar is believed to have taken the form of

a coconut tree to help quench the thirst of a pregnant woman.

One of the goddedd‟s common epithets is kurumba which means „tender

coconut‟. Folktales of all other areas mnarrate that coconut originated from head of

a dead man of from a dead eel (Johnson, 2017; Roosman;

http://www.hawaiicoconuts.com/coconut.folktalehistory/).

The term coconut refers to the seed or the fruit of coconut palm (Cocos

nucifera). Cocos is a monotypic genus of the family Arecaceae. The epithet nut is a

misnomer, as the fruit is a drupe botanically. Early Spanish explorers called it

“cocos“ or “monkey face” because the three indentation (eyes) on the hairy nut

resemble the head hand face of a monkey; “nucifera” means “nut bearing”. The

spelling “coconut” is anold fashioned form of the word coconut (Pearsall, 2017).

12
Coconut palms grow throughout the tropics in a band around the world from 25 0

North and 250 South of the equator. The ideal growing conditions for coconut

palms include free-draining aerated soil often found on sandy beaches, a supply of

fresh ground water, humid atmosphere and temperatures between 270c and 300c.

The very names are reflective of its uses and essentially in everyday life of people

in the tropics. Each and every part of the palm is useful in one way or another and

not even an inch of the tree goes waste. The coconut palm is interwined with life

itself, from the food they eat to the beverages they drink and derive almost

everything necessary to sustain the life. All the daily needs as household utensils,

baskets, cooking oil, furniture and cosmetics are made from the coconut palm.

2.1 RELIGIOUS SIGNIFICANCE OF COCONUT OIL

It is a symbol of life, gods and desires. The coconut represents the Hindu

trinity of Brahma (the creator), Vishnu the (protector) and Mahesh the (destroyer).

And is also symbol of God as on offering to the Gods. The versatile fruits is also

considered a medium to fulfill all desires. Hence, the significance, Devotees pay

tribute to the three gods by treating the coconut as an object of worship. Thus, they

seek the blessings of the trinity.

The coconut tree is an ancient plant that has withstood many centuries,

making its hoe successfully in many tropical climates around the world. Globally,

13
coconuts are a major food crop and throughout history they have been used to heal

ailments both mental and physical.

Coconut oil is a miracle product that has many uses and health benefits. It is

extracted from coconut but can be used on pretty much anything, including your

hair and skin. Coconut oil has many uses, some of which are pretty surprising. But

what you might not know is that coconut oil is steeped in spiritual meaning and

origins. It‟s a great way to bring positive energy into your home, create an

aromatic atmosphere, and purify space. Coconut oil is known for it ability to

penetrate and moisturizes. It is also been used as a natural remedy for various skin

conditions such as eczeama, psoriasis and dandruff.

While coconut oil‟s healing benefits are well-documented, there are many

spiritual meanings associated with this oil. For example, many people believe that

coconut oil has the ability to bring about positive change in their lives because of

the way it smells and tastes. When you see this oil on your hair, you will not notice

that it smells like fresh coconuts and tastes sweet like coconut milk

2.2 CHEMICAL COMPOSITION OF COCONUT OIL

Coconut oil has become one of the most desired oils in the world due to its

high degree of saturation and good stability. There are different types of coconut

oil derived from different parts of the coconut.

14
Copra oil is extracted from the dried kernel by mechanical milling and virgin

coconut oil (VCO) is extracted from the fresh kernel without high heat or chemical

treatment.

Coconut that grows on the coconut palm is consumed world wide,

particularly in southeast Asia and the Caribean. It‟s composition is determined by

several; factors, such as age and variety. Every month, a new cluster of coconuts

grows from the previous one. Over the course of a year, both the the weight of the

kernel and volume composition of the coconut water alter significantly as the

coconut expand in size.

2.2.1 PARTS OF THE COCONUT : WATER, COPRA

Coconut water is used in a variety of ways and considered to be one of the

functional natural products available. Because it is nutritious and healthful, this

pleasant beverage is consumed all around the world. Recently, thre has been

growing scientific support regarding the importance of coconut water in

therapeutic applications and health. Its vast range of applications can be attributed

to its chemical compositions which includes carbohydrates, phytohormones, amino

acids, minerals and vitamins (Yong et al., 2019)

Coconut copra has a high quantity of potassium in comparison to other foods

(Appaiah et al., 2014). A variety of phytochemical including Saponins, alkalioids,

15
tannins, glycosides, flavonoids and phenols- have been discovered in studies on the

Nigerian type of coconut. These phytochemicals significantly affect the anti-

inflammatory, antioxidant and reducing properties of the copra (Yong J. W, et al.,

2019). The coconut is protected by a brown, thin outer layer of the endosperm

called testa. It is a co-product and by –product of haustorium manufacture an

coconut processing industry, respectively.

2.3 MEDICINAL VALUE OF COCONUT OIL

Medicinal value of coconut oil has been known in India since ancient times

(Chiovenda, 2011, 2013). Sushruta Sanmhita (c. 400Bc) mentions nakikera in

Madhura varga and asavas (Sharma, 2014). Coconut is used in Ayurveda in the

following afflictions: in chronic fever (Vaidyamanoram-VD, 800-1000 AD); acid

gastritis [(Cakradatta-CD, 1055 AD); VD]; Parinam sula (CD);‟ cracks in feet

(Vrndamadhava-VM); in hemicranias (VM); Gravels (Bhavaprakasa); worms

(VD); wound(VD); and vomiting (Charaka Samhita, 700Bc) (Sharma, 2017).

Coconut water, flowers, oil, milk and ash of coir have medicinal uses. At present,

coconut is used in folk medicine, Ayurveda, Sddha, Tibetan and Unani systems of

medicine. It possesses anthelmintic, autidotal, antiseptic, aparient, aphrodisiac,

astringent, bactericidal, depurative, divretic, hermostat, pediculicide, purgative,

refrigerant, stomachic, styptic, suppurative and vermifuge properties. It is used as a

16
folk remedy for abscesses, alopecia, amenorrhea, asthma, blenorrhagia, bronchitis,

bruises, burns Cachexia, calculus, colds, constipation, cough, debility, dropsy,

dysentery, dysmenorrheal, earache, erysipelas, fever, flu, gingivitis, gonorrhea,

hematemesis, hemotysis, jaundice, menorrhagia, nausea, phyhisis, pregnancy, rash,

scabies, scurvy, sore throat, stomach ache swelling, syphilis, toothache,

tuberculosis, tumors, typhoid, venereal diseases and wounds (Duke and Wain,

2016; Udaya and Balachandran, 2009).

It is also believed to be anti-blenorrhagic, antbronchitis, febrifugal and anti-

gingivitic.

Coconut flowers are edible; they are mixed with curd for consumption by

diabetes, and are given to newly weds as aphrodisiac (Khanna, 2015). Ibn Batutta

mentioned that inhabitantds of Maldives gain incomparable erotic potency from

fish and coconut and confirmed if from his own experience (Gibbs, 2009; Rand

hawa, 2010). However, ancient literature (BVP) prohibits use of coconut plant

along with nine other plants for brushing teeth (Sensarma, 2009). Manucci in 1694

write that “little coconut (coquinhos)” are used for many infantile complaints as

diarrhea and mouth sores. The 71-76cm size nut called lanha are full of sweet and

refreshing water , used in inflammation of liver, kidneys and the bladder and

increases urination. It is also good for excessive heat of the liver, palm in the

17
bowels or discharge of mucus and blood. It refreshes in the season of great heat

(Irvine, 1907-08, Randhawa, 2018).

2.4 PHYTOCHEMICAL OF COCONUT OIL

Coconut oil is insoluble in water. At temperature above its meting point it is

completely miscible with most of the non-hydroxylic solvents such as light

petroleum, benzene, carbon tetrachloride e.t.c. in alcohol, coconut oil is more

soluble the most common fats and oil.

Phytochemical studies of the coconut fiber (mesocarp) ethanolic extract

revealed that the presence of phenols, tannins, leucoanthocyanidins, flavonoids,

triterpenses, steroids, and alkaloids (Mato FTA, 2017). While a butanol extract

recovered triterpenes, Saponins and condensed tannins (Costa C. T, 2010).

Notably, compounds like flavonoids having antioxidant action are widely

distributed in edible vegetables, fruits and many herbs (Chaaj, and Haug X., 2017;

Yook tts, 2019). Condensed tannins are reported to possess antitielminthic activity

by binding to proteins present in the cuticle, oral cavity, esophagus and cloaca of

nematodes, thus intensifying the physical and chemical damage in helminth

(Hoste, 2016).

18
The lyphiilized extract and fractions as well as ethyl acetate extracts from the

C.nucifera fiber are rich in polyphenols compounds such as catechins,

epicatechins, tannins, and flavonoids (Esquenazi MD, et al, 2012).

The constituents of the liquid albumen were identified as Vitamin B,

nicotinic acid (B3, 0.64ug/ml), pantothenic acid (B5, 0.52ug/ml), biotin

(0.02ug/ml), riboflavin (B2, <0.01ng/ml), folic acid (0.003ug/ml), with trace

quantities of vitamins B1,Bb, and C pyridoxine, thiamine, folic acid, amino acids,

L-arginine, plant hormones (auxin 1,3-diphenylvea, cytokinin), enzymes (acid

phosphatase, catalase, dehydrogenase, diastase, peroxidase, RNA polymerases),

and growth-promoting factors (Magda, 2012, Yong, 2009; Solangih, 2011).

2.5 HEALTH BENEFITS OF COCONUT OIL

Coconut oil has wide variety of amazing health benefits including being for:

 Heart health: coconut oil is great for keeping heart healthy and does not lead

to high cholesterol unlike the trans fats in processed foods. However, like

everything else, it is good in moderation, so be sure not to have too much of

good thing.

 Candida sufferers: coconut p coconut oil is good, natural remedy for those

with yeast infections due to its antifungal properties.

19
 Immune system: there are two specific chain fats found in coconut oil- lauric

and caprylic acid. Lauric acid has many documented antiviral and anti

microbial properties, as well as caprylic acid being wiely used as an

antifungal and general anti-microbial. As coconut oil contains both thses, it‟s

perfect for anyone with an infection or weak immune system.

 People without a gallbladder or with fat digestion problems: coconut oil is

much better digested and faster absorbed than any other fat, so it‟s a very

wise choice for those who suffer with poor fat digestion

 Contain medium – chain fatty acids: coconut oil is different from other

dietary oils, because it is mainly compose of medium chain fatty

acids(MCFAs), whereas most other oils are at most entirely long chain fatty

acids. This means that the fatty acid in coconut oil are made up of a chain of

six to 12 carbon atoms, as opposed to the more than 12 found in long chain

fatty acids. This difference in structure has all sorts of implications from

how the oil is digested to how it is influences the body.

 May be helpful in the treatment of skin condition: limited but consistent

evidence appears to support the topical use of coconut oil for the prevention

and treatment of mild to moderate cases of chronic skin disease

characterized by defects in the epidermal barrier function and cutaneous

inflammation in which transpidermal water loss (JEWL) is increased and the

20
 ability of the stratum ceneum to hold water is impaired, causing deceased

skin capacitance and hydration. It has also been shown to alleviate some

complex skin conditions such as eczema or psoriasis.

 May protect hair from damage: the lauric acid in coconut oil appears to

have a high affinity for hair protein and because of the way the oil is

structured, it is able to penetrate inside the hair shaft. This means coconut oil

and products made from it may be useful in preventing the hair damage

caused by protein loss due to grooming and utraviolet (uv) exposure.

However, more studies are need to confirm this effect.

 May be helpful in the prevention of dental cares: oil pulling is a traditional

ayurvedic remedy originally practiced in ancient India for the maintenance

of oral health. More recent studies suggest the practice of using coconut oil

may be for the prevention of “dental cares by reducing plaque formation and

gingivitis”. However, limitations in sample sizes and duration means a larger

number of ell designed randomized controlled trials are needed to determine

the true value of coconut oil for this purpose.

 May have antimicrobial effects: coconut oil has antimicrobial and antifungal

properties due to its Medium Chain Triglycendes (MCT) content-

specifically, lauric acid. Lauric acid is a fatty acid that makes up about 50%

of the MCTs in coconut oil.

21
Research suggests its may have antimicrobial effects against disease causing

micro-organisms, such as: Staphylococcus aureus, streptococcus mutans,

streptococcus pyogenes, Escherichia coli, Helicobacter Pylori. Studies shows that

lauric acid may act as a bacteriostatic agent. This is a substance that prevents

bacteria from multiplying without killing the bacteria. It may also act as a

bacteriocidal agent, which destroy some bacteria. In addition, it may inhibit the

growth of microorganisms that are harmful to plants

Note: lauric acid in coconut oil may have antimicrobial properties against a variety

of harmful microorganisms.

Antioxidants

Coconut oil may reduce cellular damage and the risk of disease. Coconut is high in

antioxidants such as; tocopherols, tocophenols, flavonoid and polyphenols.

Antioxidant are natural plant-based compounds that confer health benefits in the

body by neutralizing harmful free radicals. Free radicals cause oxidative damage in

the body, potentially attering DNA and turning on or off genes, and can cause

premature cell death, cellular aging, inflammation kind cancer. Diets hig in

antioxidants can protect against this adverse cellular damage and the risk of certain

inflammatory diseases and cancer.

22
Treatment of Abdominal Troubles

Hemorrboids are swollen veins in the anus and lower rectum. They are fairly

common and can cause symptoms like itching, bleeding and discomfort. The

treatment for hemorrhoids often includes controlling swelling, discomfort, and

inflammation. Coconut oil can be used to help treat all these symptoms.

Coconut oil has strong anti-inflammatory properties which can reduce

inflammation and swelling. This oils powerful analysis (or pain relieving)

properties can help to reduce discomfort caused by the hemorrhoids, while its

antibacterial properties allow the hemorrhoid to heal faster.

Coconut oil may also aid in relieving constipation thanks to a laxative effect. Since

constipation or straining during bowel movements is a common cause of

hemorrhoids, this can help to treat and prevent them.

23
 CHAPTER THREE

3.0 MATERIALS AND METHODS

3.1 MATERIALS AND APPARATUS

 Analytical balance

 Beaker

 Heating mantle

 2000ml volumetric (round bottom) flask

 Timble head

 Soxhlet extractor

 Condenser

 Handkerchief

 Twine

 Mortar and pestle

 Spatula

 Bucket

 Gas tube (hose)

 Stop watch

 Test- tubes

 Restor stand

24
3.2 CHEMICALS/ REAGENTS

 Wagner reagent

 Dragendroff reagent

 Iodine solution

 Sodium hydroxide (NAOH)

 Dilute hydrochloric acid (HCL)

 Water (H2O)

 n – hexane

 Isopropyl alcohol

 Ammonium hydroxide solution

 Alcoholic x - naphtol

 Saporin reagent

3.3 COLLECTION AND PREPARATION OF OIL SAMPLE

The fruits were collected from Uchi market Auchi, Etsako West, Edo State,

Nigeria and identified at the biological garden of Auchi Polytechnic, Auchi. These

were then grounded manually using mortar and pestle and stored in air tight

containers prior to the commencement of the analysis.

400g of the grounded sample was extracted with 1500ml n – hexane using

the soxhlet extraction method. The filtrate was concentrated by heating in a water
25
bath at 600c to evaporate the n-hexane giving a liquid extract. The extract was used

for the analysis.

3.4 PHYTOCHEMICAL DETECTION OF THE ACTIVE

COMPONENTS OF COCONUT OIL

Chemical test were carried out on the coconut opil extracts by using standard

procedures to identify the constituents as follows:

Detection of Saponin

1gm of extracted coconut oil was added with 3ml of saponin reagent and

was shaked vigorously for about 2 minutes. There was an appearance of white

precipitate which indicate the present of saponin.

Detection of Tannins

10% Naoh Test: To 0.4ml plant extract, 4ml of 10% Naoh was added and

shaked vigorously. There was no observable change which indicate the absence of

hydrolysable tannins.

Test for Alkaloid

Wagner‟s Test: few ml filtrate, 2 drops of wagner‟s reagent was added and

shaked vigorously. There was no change observed. This indicate the absence of

alkaloid
26
Dragendroff‟s Test: few ml of the filtrate was added with dragendroff‟s reagent

and was vigorously shaked. The expected reddish – brown precipitate was not

observed which implies the absence of alkaloids.

Test for Flavonoid

Alkaline Reagent Test: 1ml extract was shaken with 2ml of 2% Naoh

solution and observed for an intense yellow colour then few drops of dilute

hydrochloric acid was added. The intense yellow colour was not formed, therefore

on further addition of dilute acid there was no change formed.

Test for Phenolic

Iodine Test: To 1ml extract of coconut oil, few drops of diluted iodine

solution was added and shaked for 2 minutes. A transient red colour was formed

which indicated the presence of phenolic.

Test for Carbohydrate

A quantity of 2ml filtrate was shaken vigorously with 2 drops of alcoholic ∝ -

naphthol. 1ml of concentrated H0SO4 was carefully added along the side of the test

tube. A violet ring form was formed indicating the presence of carbohydrate.

27
Test for Anthraquinones

Ammonium Hydroxide Test: 10mg of the coconut oil extract was dissolved in

isopropyl alcohol with a few drops of concentrated ammonium hydroxide solution.

After two minutes, there was no formation of red colour which signifies the

absence of anthraquinoses.

28
 CHAPTER FOUR

4.0 RESULT AND DISCUSSION

4.1 RESULT

Phytochemicals Inference
Saponin +
Tannins _
Alkaloids –
Flavonoid –
Phenols +
Carbohydrates +
Anthraquinones –

Table 1: Showing the Qualitative Phytochemical Screening of Coconut (Coccos

nucifera L).

Key
+ Positive

- Negative

29
4.2 MEDICINAL PLANTS ARE A SOURCE OF GREAT ECONOMIC

VALUE ALL OVER THE WORLD.

Native has bestowed on us a very rich botanical wealth and a large number

of adverse types of plants grow in different parts of the country. Plants phenolics

present in fruits and vegetables have received considerable attention because of

their potential antioxidant activities (Lopez- Velezer et al., 2013).

Herbal extract contain different phytochemicals with biological activity that

can be of valuable therapeutic index phytochemicals screening of plants generally

provides protection against chronic disorder (Tonia et al., 2019). They help reveal

the constituents of the plant extracts and the one that predominant over the other

but also is helpful in searching for bioactive agents those can be used in the

synthesis of useful drugs (Dipak Raj et al …. www.nebi.n/m.nih.gov).

The results of the phytochemical screening of coconut (cocos nucifera L)

presented in the table shows the presence of saponins, phenolis and carbohydrates.

Saponins are a group of naturally occurring plant glycosides, characterized

by their strong foam forming properties. In aqueous solution. The presence of

Saponins has been reported in more than 100 families of plants out of which at

least 150 kinds of natural saponins have been found to possess significant anti-

cancer properties (Shuli et al., 2010).

30
Saponins from coconut possess antioxidant effect on the skin and protects it

against uv damage.

Phenolics compound are ubiquitous in plants which collectively synthesize

several thousand different chemicals structures characterized by hydroxylated

aromatic ring(s).

Research shows the health promoting properties of specific phenolic

compounds with antioxidant activities towards cancer cardiovascular and

neurodegenerative diseases for use in anti-aging or cosmetic product (Alain-

Michel, 2017).

Carbohydrates is the only macronutrient with no established minimum

requirement, whole fruits are high in fibre, vitamins, minerals and phytochemicals

and typically have moderate to lo GI. Regular consumption of fruits (coconut) is

associated with lower risk of type 2 diabetes cardiovascular disease, cancer and all

cause montality in propective cohort studies (David et al.,)

31
 CHAPTER FIVE

5.0 CONCLUSION AND RECOMMENDATION

5.1 CONCLUSION

The detailed information on nutritional and health promoting of coconut oil

(cocos nucifera) our knowledge and appreciation for the use of coconut oil on our

body and hair as a functional body ingredient. The phytochemical screening of

coconut are characterized by a high protein, carbohydrate and fats/oil content. The

phytochemical screening of coconut seed oil extract demonstrated the presence of

saponin, phenolis and carbohydrates while the sample does not show the presence

of Tannin, Alkaloid, flavonoid and authraquinones. The phytochemicals present in

coconut oil extract have a well known curative against several pathogens on the

human body and therefore could suggest the use of traditional method for the

treatment of various ailments.

This study justifies the use of coconut oil in the treatment of many

debilitating ailments like cancer diabetes, ulcer, obesity, heart disease and

infections due to microorganisms. However, the medicinal. Pharmacological usage

of coco nucifera is a result of the oil present in it and its non-nutrient

(phytochemical) content which act as antioxidant against dangerous free radicals in

the body system. (Enig and Fallon, 2012).

32
5.2 RECOMMENDATION

From the information obtained above, the use of coconut oil is highly

recommended since it can be used to treat many ailment on or in the human body

It is also recommended that advanced studied should be carried out on coconut oil

in terms of mineral composition, while the anti oxidant properties can be extended

quantitatively.

33
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