Preliminary Phytochemical and Physicochemical Characterization of Gynura segetum (Lour) Merr (Compositae) Leaf

Purpose: To carry out phytochemical and physicochemical studies on the leaves of Gynura segetum. Methods: Preliminary phytochemical and physicochemical studies using chromatographic techniques,were carried out, Parameters evaluated include ash value, loss on drying and extractive value, amongst others. . Results: Phytochemical results revealed that the leaves of Gynura segetum contain alkaloid, terpene, flavonoid, tannin and saponin. Mean ash value (%) was 13.5 (total), 2.49 (acid-insoluble ash) and 6.14 (water-soluble ash). Loss on drying was 10.70 % while extractive value was 20.60 % in water and 14.13 % in ethanol. Thin layer chromatography (TLC) analysis indicates the presence of rutin in the methanol extract of G. segetum and this was supported by high performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) studies. Conclusion: Useful quantitative and descriptive data essential for identifying and characterizing the plant for the purpose of quality control are presented.