DETERMINATION OF THE FREE RADICAL SCAVENGING PROPERTIES AS INDICES FOR EVALUATING THE ANTICANCER EFFECTS OF VIGNA SESQUIPEDALIS

Abstract

Vigna sesquipedalis was assayed to determine its content of essential minerals and vitamins that are commonly associated with the ability to neutralize the damaging effects of free radicals and consequently help prevent the development of cancer. Selenium, zinc, manganese, copper and iron which have antioxidant capability were determined among other minerals. The antioxidant vitamins, A, C, and E were also assayed among other vitamins. Appropriate colorimetric and itration methods were used for assay of vitamins while the minerals were determined by means of atomic absorption spectrophotometer. The results of the analyses showed that the seeds have significant concentrations of vitamins A and C while vitamin E concentration was relatively low. Also the minerals zinc, iron and manganese were significantly present while selenium and copper were of relatively low concentrations. However, the antinutrients namely trypsin inhibitor, haemagglutinin, and glycosides were found to be present. The results show that Vigna sesquipedalis has significant concentration of substances that are effectively involved in free radical scavenging and which can consequently enhance the body’s protection against cancer development. The consumption of natural foods should be highly encouraged to reduce the chances of development of cancer associated with increased consumption of industrially processed foods.

Keywords

• Vigna sesquipedalis
• free radicals
• antioxidants
• vitamins, minerals