Evaluation of the Physico-Chemical and Biochemical Characteristics of the Leaves of Hibiscus cannabinus L. Cultivated in Burkina Faso

Abstract

Hibiscus cannabinus L. is a leafy vegetable that contributes to improving the nutritional status of populations. Leaf production generates significant income in both rural and urban areas [1] . However, national reports on the state of plant genetic resources indicate a decline in cultivation and the loss of local knowledge related to its use, to such an extent that the nutritional value of the leaves remains unknown in Burkina Faso. Hence the need to explore the plant’s nutritional potential through an evaluation of the nutritional value of the leaves, in order to revive interest in its cultivation. This study is situated within this context. The study involved 15 samples of powdered young leaves. These were dried in the shade and stored in the laboratory of the Plant Genetics and Breeding Team (EGAP). The determination of water, ash, lipid, protein, and carbohydrate content involved first taking a 5 g sample, and in accordance with the protocol of the respective standards, the content of these parameters was determined using appropriate formulas. The K, Mg, Ca, Fe, Zn, and Na content was measured by atomic absorption spectrophotometry using the AOAC digestion method quoted in [2] with strong acids and 0.5 g of ash from the complete incineration of each sample. Analysis of the results revealed significant variability between accessions, structured into four main groups, and interactions between certain agromorphological and chemical parameters. Based on the structure of this variance, two branches can be identified. The first major branch separates Group 1 into a mineral/protein pole. The second branch separates group 2 from groups 3 and 4, highlighting a marked divergence between genotypes with high structural vigor and genotypes exhibiting lower or early performance. These results can serve as a basis for breeders in choosing the parameters to integrate into the selection and improvement programs of Hibiscus cannabinus L.