Author(s): Okereke CN, Iroka FC, Chukwuma MO.

Abstract: The phytochemical analyses, nutrient value and economic importance of Hibiscus sabdariffa commonly known as Zobo plant was carried out. In Nigeria the plant is used to make a popular beverage known as Zobo drink. Investigations revealed that the plant is highly rich in vital minerals and nutrients such as Iron, copper, calcium, magnesium, manganese required for healthy growth in humans. The phytochemicals were extracted from the dried calyces of Hibiscus sabdariffa using solvent extraction method. The preliminary phytochemical analysis showed that there are some plant chemicals present in the extract such as alkaloids, tannins, saponnins, glycosides, phenols and flavonoids and quantitative result revealed their presence as follows; Tannins (17.0%), saponnins (0.96%), phenols (1.1%), glycosides (0.13%), alkaloids (2.14%) and flavonoids 20.08%). Hibiscus sabdariffa has medicinal benefits as it causes reduction in hypertension and cholesterol. The plant is economically important for proper metabolic process to be adequately maintained. It was discovered that the dietary constituents contributing to the protective effects of these plant materials are plant secondary metabolites in the form of phytochemicals, vitamins and minerals. Medicinal and aromatic plants contain biologically active chemical substances such as saponins, tannins, glycosides and other chemical compounds which have curative properties. This study suggests that plant derived medicines are relatively safer than synthetic alternative offering profound therapeutic benefits and more affordable treatment, hence, Hibiscus sabdariffa is readily available to provide such benefits.