Proximate and Minor Mineral Content in Some Selected Basil Leaves of Ocimum gratissimum L, in Libya

Abstract

and exist in whorled and panicled inflorescence. The fruits of nutlets are subglose, 1.5-2mm diameter and slightly rugose. Ocimum gratissinum is popularly used in folk medicine for the treatment of upper respiratory tract infection, diarrhea, cough, fever, gonorrhea, worm infection, stomach aches, headaches, pile, pneumonia and surface wound. It is also implicated in blood coagulation, anti- inflammatory, cardiovascular and renal function properties have been observed (7). Ocimum gratissinum is a herbaceous plant which belongs to the Labiatae family. The plant is indigenous to tropical areas especially Libya and it is also in West Africa. The leaves of Ocimum gratissinum are used to prepare soups and porridge for women after delivery among the Igbos of Africa and also in the management of the baby's cord after delivery. The plant is used as food spice and for the treatment of ailments such as; malaria, diabetes, respiratory and urinary tract infections, cough, fever, diarrhea, abdominal pains, pneumonia, conjunctivitis, oral wounds and tooth infection (8), (9). In this study, therefore, the leaves from three region of Ocimum gratissinum collected from Libya was analyzed for proximate and minerals constituents with view if there are variations in these accessions and if there are, to determine the heritable and non heritable components and estimates of heritability and genetic advance expected.