PHYTOCHEMICAL SCREENING OF COCONUT OIL Happiness
PHYTOCHEMICAL SCREENING OF COCONUT OIL Happiness
PHYTOCHEMICAL SCREENING OF COCONUT OIL Happiness
BY
DECEMBER, 2022
1
CERTIFICATION
We hereby certify that this project work, photochemical screening of coconut oil
was carried out by
2
ACKNOWLEDGEMENT
Our sincere gratitude also goes to our HOD Mr. Abdulkadir N.M all our
lecturers especially in science laboratory technology for their moral and academic
support,
3
ACKNOWLEDGEMENT
We are great full to Almighty God for giving us the strength knowledge and
Our profound gratitude goes to our wonderful supervisor Mr Ahmad Hussaini for
his invaluable support, patience, time and guidance in seeing us to the completion
We also extend gratitude and appreciation to our lectures who have taught us at
one point or the other may God continue to bless, protect and guide you all. Also
Appreciation also goes to our Parents and siblings who have been a source of
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TABLE OF CONTENT
Title page- - - - - - - - - - - i
Certification- - - - - - - - - - ii
Dedication - - - - - - - - - - iii
Acknowledgment - - - - - - - - - iv
Table of content - - - - - - - - - v
Abstract - - - - - - - - - - vi
CHAPTER ONE
1.0 Introduction - - - - - - - - - 1
1.1 Aims - - - - - - - - - - 4
1.2 Objectives - - - - - - - - 4
1.3 Justification of Study - - - - - - - 4
1.4 Scope of the Study- - - - - - - - 4
CHAPTER TWO
2.0 Literature Review - - - - - - - - 5
2.1 Religious Significance of Coconut Oil- - - - - 6
2.2 Chemical Composition of Coconut Oil- - - - - 7
2.2.1 Parts of the Coconut: water, Copra - - - - - - 8
2.3 Medicinal Value of Coconut Oil - - - - - - 9
2.4 Phytochemical of Coconut Oil - - - - - - - 11
2.5 Health Benefits of Coconut Oil - - - - - - 12
CHAPTER THREE
3.0 Materials and Methods- - - - - - - - 17
3.1 Materials and Apparatus - - - - - - - 17
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3.2 Chemicals/Reagents - - - - - - - -18
3.3 Collection and Preparation of Oil Sample - - - - 18
3.4 Phytochemical Detection of the Active Components of Coconut Oil 19
CHAPTER FOUR
4.0 Result and Discussion - - - - - - - - 22
4.1 Result - - - - - -- - - - 22
4.2 Medicinal Plants are a Source of Great Economic Value all over the
World. - - - - - -- - - - - 23
CHAPTER FIVE
5.0 Conclusion and Recommendation- - - - - - 25
5.1 Conclusion - - - - - - 25
5.2 Recommendation - - - - - - 26
References - - - - - -- - 27
6
ABSTRACT
This study tends to analyze the presence of phytochemical properties of coconut
oil. The objectives is to collect and prepare the coconut fruit sample for analysis
and to test for the phytochemical constituents in the fruit sample. Various
phytochemicals such as; Saponin, Tannins, Alkaloids, Flavonoid, Phenols,
Carbohydrates and Anthraquinones was determined. From the result, it was
observed that coconut oil is suitable for the treatment of many debilitating ailments
like cancer diabetes, ulcer, obesity, heart disease and infections due to
microorganisms. However, the medicinal. Pharmacological usage of coco nucifera
is a result of the oil present in it and its non-nutrient (phytochemical) content
which act as antioxidant against dangerous free radicals in the body system. It is
therefore, recommended that advanced studied should be carried out on coconut
oil in terms of mineral composition, while the anti oxidant properties can be
extended quantitatively.
7
CHAPTER ONE
1.0 INTRODUCTION
Phytochemicals are plants derived chemicals that are used therapeutic agent.
They reduce the risk of cancer due to dietary fibers, polyphenol antioxidants and
phytochemicals present in plants like cotton, palm e.t.c, and also use them as a
to the family Arecaceae (palmae). Palmae is a vast family consisting of about 217
genera and 2,500 species. Cocos nucitera belongs to the order arecales and it is the
sole species of the genus cocos belonging to the subfamily cocoideae. (Evans,
2013).
One of the primary product from coconut fruit is the coconut oil. It has been
referred to as “miracle oil”. The coconut oil is a functional food because it provides
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Acidic Concentration and Medicinal Use of Coconut Oil
medium chain saturated fatty acid (92%) and unsaturated fatty acid (8%)
(Reynolds, 2015). Approximately 50% of the fatty acid in coconut fat is lauric acid
(Enig and Fallen, 2012). Lauric acid is a medium chain fatty acid that is broken
down into monolarium in the human body. Monolarium is the active metabolite of
Other medium chain saturated fatty acids present are; caprylic acid (9%),
capric acid (8%), capric acid (5%) and myristic acid (20%) which makes up the
The long chain fatty acids include palmitic acid and stearic acid. The fatty acid
portion of the coconut oil is responsible for the anti bacterial, antiprotozoal,
All over the globe, coconut has been revered as a valuable source of both
food and medicine. In traditional medicine, the coconut is used to treat a wide
(Hartwell, 2008-2012).
It is also used to expel intestinal parasites like tapeworms and Helicobacter pylori
Used for wounds, burns, bruises, rashes, eczema, and dermatitis (Reynolds,
2015).
Effective in treating and preventing heart diseases and cancer (Fife, 2010)
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It reduces inflammation and allergic reaction due to it‟s anti histamic effect
(Iwu, 2014).
1.1 AIMS
1.2 OBJECTIVES
Coconut palm fruit is of great benefit both health wise, as food and even in
industries as it is used in treating several diseases e.g cancer and heart diseases and
also use for making of some furniture in the furniture industry. It also boost energy
needed by the body and give a healthy and fine looking skin. This research is
This project work will be limited to the screening and analysis of the
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CHAPTER TWO
credits the creation of palm with its crown of leafy fronds to the sage vishwamitra,
to prop up his friend king Trishanku when the latter was literally thrown out of
heaven by India for his misdeeds (Ghandhi and Singh, 2009 Gupta, 2009). In
coconut‟. Folktales of all other areas mnarrate that coconut originated from head of
http://www.hawaiicoconuts.com/coconut.folktalehistory/).
The term coconut refers to the seed or the fruit of coconut palm (Cocos
nucifera). Cocos is a monotypic genus of the family Arecaceae. The epithet nut is a
“cocos“ or “monkey face” because the three indentation (eyes) on the hairy nut
resemble the head hand face of a monkey; “nucifera” means “nut bearing”. The
spelling “coconut” is anold fashioned form of the word coconut (Pearsall, 2017).
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Coconut palms grow throughout the tropics in a band around the world from 25 0
North and 250 South of the equator. The ideal growing conditions for coconut
palms include free-draining aerated soil often found on sandy beaches, a supply of
fresh ground water, humid atmosphere and temperatures between 270c and 300c.
The very names are reflective of its uses and essentially in everyday life of people
in the tropics. Each and every part of the palm is useful in one way or another and
not even an inch of the tree goes waste. The coconut palm is interwined with life
itself, from the food they eat to the beverages they drink and derive almost
everything necessary to sustain the life. All the daily needs as household utensils,
baskets, cooking oil, furniture and cosmetics are made from the coconut palm.
It is a symbol of life, gods and desires. The coconut represents the Hindu
trinity of Brahma (the creator), Vishnu the (protector) and Mahesh the (destroyer).
And is also symbol of God as on offering to the Gods. The versatile fruits is also
considered a medium to fulfill all desires. Hence, the significance, Devotees pay
tribute to the three gods by treating the coconut as an object of worship. Thus, they
The coconut tree is an ancient plant that has withstood many centuries,
making its hoe successfully in many tropical climates around the world. Globally,
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coconuts are a major food crop and throughout history they have been used to heal
Coconut oil is a miracle product that has many uses and health benefits. It is
extracted from coconut but can be used on pretty much anything, including your
hair and skin. Coconut oil has many uses, some of which are pretty surprising. But
what you might not know is that coconut oil is steeped in spiritual meaning and
origins. It‟s a great way to bring positive energy into your home, create an
aromatic atmosphere, and purify space. Coconut oil is known for it ability to
penetrate and moisturizes. It is also been used as a natural remedy for various skin
While coconut oil‟s healing benefits are well-documented, there are many
spiritual meanings associated with this oil. For example, many people believe that
coconut oil has the ability to bring about positive change in their lives because of
the way it smells and tastes. When you see this oil on your hair, you will not notice
that it smells like fresh coconuts and tastes sweet like coconut milk
Coconut oil has become one of the most desired oils in the world due to its
high degree of saturation and good stability. There are different types of coconut
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Copra oil is extracted from the dried kernel by mechanical milling and virgin
coconut oil (VCO) is extracted from the fresh kernel without high heat or chemical
treatment.
several; factors, such as age and variety. Every month, a new cluster of coconuts
grows from the previous one. Over the course of a year, both the the weight of the
kernel and volume composition of the coconut water alter significantly as the
pleasant beverage is consumed all around the world. Recently, thre has been
therapeutic applications and health. Its vast range of applications can be attributed
15
tannins, glycosides, flavonoids and phenols- have been discovered in studies on the
2019). The coconut is protected by a brown, thin outer layer of the endosperm
Medicinal value of coconut oil has been known in India since ancient times
Madhura varga and asavas (Sharma, 2014). Coconut is used in Ayurveda in the
gastritis [(Cakradatta-CD, 1055 AD); VD]; Parinam sula (CD);‟ cracks in feet
Coconut water, flowers, oil, milk and ash of coir have medicinal uses. At present,
coconut is used in folk medicine, Ayurveda, Sddha, Tibetan and Unani systems of
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folk remedy for abscesses, alopecia, amenorrhea, asthma, blenorrhagia, bronchitis,
tuberculosis, tumors, typhoid, venereal diseases and wounds (Duke and Wain,
gingivitic.
Coconut flowers are edible; they are mixed with curd for consumption by
diabetes, and are given to newly weds as aphrodisiac (Khanna, 2015). Ibn Batutta
fish and coconut and confirmed if from his own experience (Gibbs, 2009; Rand
hawa, 2010). However, ancient literature (BVP) prohibits use of coconut plant
along with nine other plants for brushing teeth (Sensarma, 2009). Manucci in 1694
write that “little coconut (coquinhos)” are used for many infantile complaints as
diarrhea and mouth sores. The 71-76cm size nut called lanha are full of sweet and
refreshing water , used in inflammation of liver, kidneys and the bladder and
increases urination. It is also good for excessive heat of the liver, palm in the
17
bowels or discharge of mucus and blood. It refreshes in the season of great heat
triterpenses, steroids, and alkaloids (Mato FTA, 2017). While a butanol extract
distributed in edible vegetables, fruits and many herbs (Chaaj, and Haug X., 2017;
Yook tts, 2019). Condensed tannins are reported to possess antitielminthic activity
by binding to proteins present in the cuticle, oral cavity, esophagus and cloaca of
(Hoste, 2016).
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The lyphiilized extract and fractions as well as ethyl acetate extracts from the
quantities of vitamins B1,Bb, and C pyridoxine, thiamine, folic acid, amino acids,
Coconut oil has wide variety of amazing health benefits including being for:
Heart health: coconut oil is great for keeping heart healthy and does not lead
to high cholesterol unlike the trans fats in processed foods. However, like
good thing.
Candida sufferers: coconut p coconut oil is good, natural remedy for those
19
Immune system: there are two specific chain fats found in coconut oil- lauric
and caprylic acid. Lauric acid has many documented antiviral and anti
antifungal and general anti-microbial. As coconut oil contains both thses, it‟s
much better digested and faster absorbed than any other fat, so it‟s a very
wise choice for those who suffer with poor fat digestion
Contain medium – chain fatty acids: coconut oil is different from other
acids(MCFAs), whereas most other oils are at most entirely long chain fatty
acids. This means that the fatty acid in coconut oil are made up of a chain of
six to 12 carbon atoms, as opposed to the more than 12 found in long chain
fatty acids. This difference in structure has all sorts of implications from
evidence appears to support the topical use of coconut oil for the prevention
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ability of the stratum ceneum to hold water is impaired, causing deceased
skin capacitance and hydration. It has also been shown to alleviate some
May protect hair from damage: the lauric acid in coconut oil appears to
have a high affinity for hair protein and because of the way the oil is
structured, it is able to penetrate inside the hair shaft. This means coconut oil
and products made from it may be useful in preventing the hair damage
of oral health. More recent studies suggest the practice of using coconut oil
may be for the prevention of “dental cares by reducing plaque formation and
May have antimicrobial effects: coconut oil has antimicrobial and antifungal
specifically, lauric acid. Lauric acid is a fatty acid that makes up about 50%
21
Research suggests its may have antimicrobial effects against disease causing
lauric acid may act as a bacteriostatic agent. This is a substance that prevents
bacteria from multiplying without killing the bacteria. It may also act as a
bacteriocidal agent, which destroy some bacteria. In addition, it may inhibit the
Note: lauric acid in coconut oil may have antimicrobial properties against a variety
of harmful microorganisms.
Antioxidants
Coconut oil may reduce cellular damage and the risk of disease. Coconut is high in
Antioxidant are natural plant-based compounds that confer health benefits in the
body by neutralizing harmful free radicals. Free radicals cause oxidative damage in
the body, potentially attering DNA and turning on or off genes, and can cause
premature cell death, cellular aging, inflammation kind cancer. Diets hig in
antioxidants can protect against this adverse cellular damage and the risk of certain
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Treatment of Abdominal Troubles
Hemorrboids are swollen veins in the anus and lower rectum. They are fairly
common and can cause symptoms like itching, bleeding and discomfort. The
inflammation. Coconut oil can be used to help treat all these symptoms.
inflammation and swelling. This oils powerful analysis (or pain relieving)
properties can help to reduce discomfort caused by the hemorrhoids, while its
Coconut oil may also aid in relieving constipation thanks to a laxative effect. Since
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CHAPTER THREE
Analytical balance
Beaker
Heating mantle
Timble head
Soxhlet extractor
Condenser
Handkerchief
Twine
Spatula
Bucket
Stop watch
Test- tubes
Restor stand
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3.2 CHEMICALS/ REAGENTS
Wagner reagent
Dragendroff reagent
Iodine solution
Water (H2O)
n – hexane
Isopropyl alcohol
Alcoholic x - naphtol
Saporin reagent
The fruits were collected from Uchi market Auchi, Etsako West, Edo State,
Nigeria and identified at the biological garden of Auchi Polytechnic, Auchi. These
were then grounded manually using mortar and pestle and stored in air tight
400g of the grounded sample was extracted with 1500ml n – hexane using
the soxhlet extraction method. The filtrate was concentrated by heating in a water
25
bath at 600c to evaporate the n-hexane giving a liquid extract. The extract was used
Chemical test were carried out on the coconut opil extracts by using standard
Detection of Saponin
1gm of extracted coconut oil was added with 3ml of saponin reagent and
was shaked vigorously for about 2 minutes. There was an appearance of white
Detection of Tannins
10% Naoh Test: To 0.4ml plant extract, 4ml of 10% Naoh was added and
shaked vigorously. There was no observable change which indicate the absence of
hydrolysable tannins.
Wagner‟s Test: few ml filtrate, 2 drops of wagner‟s reagent was added and
shaked vigorously. There was no change observed. This indicate the absence of
alkaloid
26
Dragendroff‟s Test: few ml of the filtrate was added with dragendroff‟s reagent
and was vigorously shaked. The expected reddish – brown precipitate was not
Alkaline Reagent Test: 1ml extract was shaken with 2ml of 2% Naoh
solution and observed for an intense yellow colour then few drops of dilute
hydrochloric acid was added. The intense yellow colour was not formed, therefore
Iodine Test: To 1ml extract of coconut oil, few drops of diluted iodine
solution was added and shaked for 2 minutes. A transient red colour was formed
naphthol. 1ml of concentrated H0SO4 was carefully added along the side of the test
tube. A violet ring form was formed indicating the presence of carbohydrate.
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Test for Anthraquinones
Ammonium Hydroxide Test: 10mg of the coconut oil extract was dissolved in
After two minutes, there was no formation of red colour which signifies the
absence of anthraquinoses.
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CHAPTER FOUR
4.1 RESULT
Phytochemicals Inference
Saponin +
Tannins _
Alkaloids –
Flavonoid –
Phenols +
Carbohydrates +
Anthraquinones –
nucifera L).
Key
+ Positive
- Negative
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4.2 MEDICINAL PLANTS ARE A SOURCE OF GREAT ECONOMIC
Native has bestowed on us a very rich botanical wealth and a large number
of adverse types of plants grow in different parts of the country. Plants phenolics
provides protection against chronic disorder (Tonia et al., 2019). They help reveal
the constituents of the plant extracts and the one that predominant over the other
but also is helpful in searching for bioactive agents those can be used in the
presented in the table shows the presence of saponins, phenolis and carbohydrates.
Saponins has been reported in more than 100 families of plants out of which at
least 150 kinds of natural saponins have been found to possess significant anti-
30
Saponins from coconut possess antioxidant effect on the skin and protects it
against uv damage.
aromatic ring(s).
Michel, 2017).
requirement, whole fruits are high in fibre, vitamins, minerals and phytochemicals
associated with lower risk of type 2 diabetes cardiovascular disease, cancer and all
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CHAPTER FIVE
5.1 CONCLUSION
(cocos nucifera) our knowledge and appreciation for the use of coconut oil on our
coconut are characterized by a high protein, carbohydrate and fats/oil content. The
saponin, phenolis and carbohydrates while the sample does not show the presence
coconut oil extract have a well known curative against several pathogens on the
human body and therefore could suggest the use of traditional method for the
This study justifies the use of coconut oil in the treatment of many
debilitating ailments like cancer diabetes, ulcer, obesity, heart disease and
32
5.2 RECOMMENDATION
From the information obtained above, the use of coconut oil is highly
recommended since it can be used to treat many ailment on or in the human body
It is also recommended that advanced studied should be carried out on coconut oil
in terms of mineral composition, while the anti oxidant properties can be extended
quantitatively.
33
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