NUTRIENT AND ANTI-NUTRITIONAL FACTOR CONTENTS OF FOUR ACCESSIONS CULTIVARS OF Mucuna pruriens LEAVES.

Abstract

Mucuna pruriens is a valuable fodder and feed supplement legumes for ruminants. Samples of four accessions of Mucuna pruriens leaves samples were harvested from Oyo State College of Agricultural and Technology, Igboora pasture plot. The Samples were analyzed for proximate, anti-nutrient and mineral composition. The experimental plots were laid in randomized complete block design. The Four (4) different cultivars of Mucuna pruriens used in the study are Tmp-1, Tmp-3, Tmp-5 and Tmp-12. Significant differences (P<0.05) were observed among the four accessions with respect of Dry matter (DM), Crude protein (CP), and Crude fiber (CF). The proximate analysis of Mucuna pruriens leaves contain Crude protein ranging between (16.80 - 18.59%), Ether extract (4.12 - 4.26%), Crude fiber (17.96 - 20.01%), Ash (9.28 - 10.16%) and Dry matter (64.50 - 69.10%). The anti-nutrient content considered among the four accessions of Mucuna pruriens leaves are Saponin, Phytate, Oxalate, Trypsin inhibitor and Hydrogen cyanide. The studies showed that Mucuna pruriens had nutritive value and therefore, may serve as potential supplements for ruminants in Nigeria.