Chemical Composition profile of Acacia nilotica Seed Growing Wild in South of Iran

Acacia Nilotica is a pioneer species, relatively high in bioactive secondary compound and are important for a variety of functions is economically used as a source of tannins, gums, timber, fuel and fodder. Babul plant is therapeutic used as Anti-cancer, anti tumours, Antiscorbutic, Astringent, antioxidant, Natriuretic, Antispasmodial, Diuretic, Intestinal pains and diarrhea, Nerve stimulant, Cold, Congestion, Coughs, Dysenter, Fever, Hemorrhages, Leucorrhea, Ophthalmia and Sclerosis. The aim of this study was determination of proximate composition, mineral elements (Calcium, Potassium, Iron, Zinc, Sodium, Selenium and Copper) contents in this endemic Iranian seed. A. Nilotica seeds (mature, dry) were collected in August 2014 from Sarkhun village, Bandar Abbas, Hormozgan Province, Iran. Specimen was identified by R. Asadpour and voucher was deposited in the Herbarium of Faculty of Pharmacy, Pharmaceutical Sciences Branch, Islamic Azad University (IAUPS). The samples were analyzed by wet digestion method and analysis of mineral element contents analyzed by Atomic Absorption Spectrophotometer in Research Laboratory in Pharmaceutical Sciences Branch, Islamic Azad University. Obviously in A. Nilotica the contents of the some trace and essential mineral element are high in comparison by other seeds studied in other countries. The value of potassium, iron and Zinc, Copper and Manganese in A. Nilotica were 2.1, 203.1, 108.7, 322.7 and 1.09 (g/100g DW) based on dry weight respectively. The oil, crude protein and crude fiber contents in this edible seed were found to be 4.1, 25.3 and 28.4 % based on the fresh weight respectively. In this study, the nutritive value of A. Nilotica mature seed native to south of Iran was determined and results revealed that it is so rich in mineral elements especially Iron and Potassium. Traditionally the plant used widely for the treatment of various ailments, but scientifically few of them was screened out. Therefore the scientific studies should be conducted to investigate the unexploited potential of Acacia Nilotica (L.).Our results revealed that it could be recommended as a dietary supplement for people who need essential mineral elements.