NUTRITIONAL COMPOSITION AND TOXICITY OF SODOM APPLE (Calotropis procera Aiton)

Abstract

Calotropis procera, commonly known as Apple of Sodom, is a xerophytic perennial shrub with traditional medicinal and industrial applications. This study evaluated the nutritional composition and toxicity of Calotropis procera leaves and latex collected from Usmanu Danfodiyo University, Sokoto, Nigeria. Proximate analysis was conducted following (AOAC, 2006) methods, while phytochemical screening employed standard colorimetric and titrimetric procedures. Results revealed that leaves contained high crude protein (23.75 ± 0.64%), crude lipid (12.64 ± 0.39%), and carbohydrate (34.92 ± 0.49%) content, while latex exhibited significantly higher moisture content (77.97 ± 0.24%). Phytochemical screening identified concerning levels of anti-nutritional compounds, particularly extremely high cyanide concentrations in latex (386.11 ± 6.36 mg/100g), far exceeding safe consumption thresholds established by WHO. Leaves showed elevated phytate (59.17 ± 13.14 mg/100g) and tannins (49.17 ± 5.30 mg/100g). Energy value calculations indicated leaves provided 1465.07 kJ/100g compared to 537.02 kJ/100g in latex. While Calotropis procera leaves demonstrate nutritional potential comparable to conventional protein sources, results emphasise the critical need for comprehensive detoxification protocols and further toxicological assessment before any nutritional or therapeutic applications can be considered safe. This study provides essential data for decision-making regarding Calotropis procera utilization.