COMPARATIVE ASSESSMENT OF THE PROXIMATE, PHYTOCHEMICALS AND MINERAL CONTENTS OF GINGER AND TURMERIC CULTIVATED IN ANAMBRA AND ADAMAWA STATES OF NIGERIA

Abstract

This study evaluated the proximate composition, phytochemical constituents, and mineral contents of ginger (Zingiber officinale) and turmeric (Curcuma longa) cultivated in Anambra and Adamawa States of Nigeria. Standard analytical methods were employed to determine proximate parameters (moisture, ash, crude fat, crude fiber, protein, and carbohydrate), phytochemicals (alkaloids, flavonoids, saponins, tannins, phenols, and glycosides), and selected minerals (zinc, potassium, iron, and magnesium). The results showed that turmeric had significantly higher carbohydrate content (67.41–68.28%) compared to ginger (41.10–43.00%), indicating its higher energy value. Ginger, however, exhibited higher crude fiber (15.70–20.00%) and fat content (15.55–16.00%). Phytochemical analysis revealed that ginger contained higher levels of alkaloids (12.00–15.23 mg/100g), flavonoids (10.81–11.00 mg/100g), and phenols (4.00–5.07 mg/100g), suggesting stronger antioxidant and medicinal properties. Both samples contained appreciable amounts of saponins, tannins, and glycosides. Mineral analysis indicated that potassium was the most abundant element in both samples, with ginger having higher values (705.53–711.60 mg/100g), while turmeric recorded higher magnesium content (240.50–241.03 mg/100g). Iron and zinc were present in moderate concentrations. Variations observed between samples from Anambra and Adamawa States were attributed to differences in environmental and soil conditions. In conclusion, both ginger and turmeric are rich sources of nutrients, phytochemicals, and essential minerals, making them valuable for nutritional and medicinal purposes. However, ginger demonstrated higher phytochemical and fiber content, while turmeric was richer in carbohydrates and certain minerals. These findings highlight the importance of these spices as functional foods and support their wider utilization.