Phytochemistry, Antimicrobial Potential and Proximate Evaluation of Marantochloa Cuspidata (Marantaceae)

The leaves of Marantochloa cuspidata are widely used in wrapping food in African communities. It is believed to enhance the taste of such food items as well as preserve them. A 50% ethanol extract of the leaves was subjected to phytochemical screening, proximate analysis and evaluation of its antimicrobial potentials using standard methods. Phytochemical screening revealed the presence of alkaloids, cardiac glycosides, tannins and saponins. Proximate analysis showed moisture content 8.81%, ash content 7.22%, fibre content 65.55% and lipid content of 7.48%. The Median Lethal Dose (LD₅₀) was 2214.58mg/kg. The extract showed antibacterial and antifungal properties,  thereby justifying its ethno-botanical uses.