Abstract
Background and aims: Traditional medicinal plants are a crucial source of bioactive compounds with therapeutic potential. Anthocleista djalonensis, a Gentianaceae family member, is widely used in African traditional medicine to treat diabetes, malaria, hypertension, and gastrointestinal disorders. This study investigates the phytochemical composition, nutritional profile, and antioxidant properties of Anthocleista djalonensis stem bark to provide scientific validation for its traditional use and potential modern applications. Methods: Stem bark of Anthocleista djalonensis was collected from Benin City, Nigeria, and authenticated. Aqueous extraction was performed using a freeze-drying method. Phytochemical screening identified tannins, flavonoids, alkaloids, saponins, and phenolics, while proximate analysis determined moisture, protein, fat, fiber, ash, and carbohydrate content. Antioxidant activity was assessed using the DPPH radical scavenging assay, compared to Vitamin C. Results: Qualitative screening revealed the presence of alkaloids, saponins, tannins, flavonoids, and phenols. Proximate analysis showed the bark to contain 6.2±0.025% protein, 37±1.6% fat, 0.11±0.010% fibre, 9.3±0.19% ash, 47±1.8% carbohydrate, and 25±0.91% moisture. Antioxidant activity assessed via the DPPH assay demonstrated a dose-dependent free radical scavenging effect, with an IC₅₀ of 36.25 ± 1.03 µg/mL compared to 21.87 ± 0.92 µg/mL for ascorbic acid (p < 0.05). Conclusion: These findings support the traditional medicinal use of Anthocleista djalonensis and highlight its potential for nutraceutical and pharmaceutical applications. Further research on its bioactive compounds could lead to novel therapeutic agents.