PHYTOCHEMICAL AND ANTI NUTRITIONAL ANALYSIS OF SODOM APPLE (Calatropis procera)

Abstract

This study investigated the phytochemical and anti-nutritional composition of Calotropis procera (Sodom apple) to scientifically validate its traditional medicinal use and assess its potential risks. Both qualitative and quantitative analyses were conducted on the plant extracts to identify major bioactive compounds and anti-nutrients. Qualitative screening revealed the presence of alkaloids, flavonoids, saponins, steroids, and cardiac glycosides, while tannins and anthraquinones were absent. Quantitative results showed that alkaloids (21.246 %) were the most abundant, followed by saponins (14.441 %), flavonoids (3.553 %), cardiac glycosides (2.377 %), and steroids (0.730 %). The anti-nutritional evaluation identified nitrate (43.89 mg) and cyanide (24.19 mg) as predominant, with moderate levels of tannin (16.84 mg) and phytate (2.393 %), and low oxalate content (0.00345%). These findings indicate that Calotropis procera is a rich source of pharmacologically active compounds that may possess antimicrobial, antioxidant, and anti-inflammatory properties, supporting its ethno medicinal use. However, the presence of toxic compounds such as cyanide and nitrate necessitates caution, as improper use may pose health risks. The study concludes that Calotropis procera has considerable therapeutic potential but should be properly processed or detoxified before medicinal or nutritional application to ensure safety and efficacy.