Anatomical, Proximate, Mineral and Vitamin Studies on Celosia argentea (Linn.)

Anatomical, Proximate, Vitamin and Mineral studies were carried out on the various parts (root, stem, leaf and petiole) of Celosia argentea L. using standard techniques. Analysis of variance (ANOVA) was used for the statistical analysis. Anatomical result revealed similar features in their epidermis and cortex and differences in their vascular bundles arrangement. Proximate analysis revealed that protein and fat contents were highest in the leaf (13.11±0.01%) and (10.61±0.00%) respectively. Crude fibre, ash and moisture contents were highest in the stem (20.85±0.07%), (23.91±0.02%) and (31.11±0.00%) respectively. Vitamins A and C contents were highest in leaf (9.02±0.03 µg/g) and (56.00±3.66 mg/100g) respectively. Mineral analysis showed that Zinc, phosphorus and iron contents were highest in leaf (0.82 ± 0.01 mg/100 g), (39.77±5.06 mg/100 g), (8.19±1.02 mg/100 g) respectively. This work has indicated that Celosia argentea is highly nutritious and should be included in our diet. Apart from the leaf eaten by our people, other parts of the plant (root and stem) should also be used as food. Also the anatomical result is an additional aid to the taxonomic characterization of the plant.