Abstract

The phytochemical, mineral and nutrient compositions of Pleurotus tuber regium as well as the effect of its dietary incorporation on body organ weight and total triacylglycerols in albino mice (Mus musculus) was studied. Phytochemical composition analysis yielded (g/100g) saponins (2.19 ± 0.19), alkaloid (0.32 ± 0.07), flavonoids (2.84 ± 0.24) and oligosaccharides (14.14 ± 0.53). Proximate analysis gave moisture (12.87 ± 0.51), dry matter (87.13 ± 0.51), ash (2.97 ± 0.09), ether extract (1.06 ± 0.21), crude protein (222.10 ± 0.66), crude fibre (10.86 ± 0.58), carbohydrates (63.03 ± 1.12) and a calorific value of 349.98 ± 3.98. Mineral composition analysis yielded g/100g calcium (0.80 ± 0.00), magnesium (0.36 ± 0.06), potassium (0.40 ± 0.03), sodium (0.20 ± 0.05) and mg/100g copper (0.83 ± 0.00), zinc (1.35 ± 0.00), iron (5.02 ± 0.00), manganese (0.06 ± 0.00) and selenium (≤ 0.0025 ± 0.00). Dietary incorporation of P. tuber regium at 5 and 10% levels resulted in a non-significant dose dependent reduction in total triacyl glycerol concentration. There was also no significant change in percentage relative weight of vital organs such as liver, Intestines, kidney and pancreas.

Key words: Pleurotus tuber regium, phytochemicals, minerals, nutrients, lipids.