Proximate analysis of some extracts used in alternative medicine

Investigation into proximate content of some extracts (Aloe vera, Ganoderma, Earthworm and snail) used for alternative medicine was conducted. Proximate analysis showed significant differences (P< 0.05) among the extract samples. The moisture content, protein, fat, fibre, ash and carbohydrate contents from the extract samples were in the range of 7.03%-8.17%, 34.63%-67.47%, 2.17%-5.53%, 0.00%-7.63%, 7.33%-12.30% and 7.40%-41.73% respectively. The highest moisture content was recorded in the Ganoderma extract while the lowest moisture content value was recorded in the earthworm extract. The protein content in the earthworm extract was the highest while that of Aloe vera was the lowest. Earthworm extract had the highest fat value while the extracts of Ganoderma and Aloe vera had the lowest value. Earthworm extract had the highest ash value and Aloe vera extract had the lowest value. The highest fibre content was recorded in Ganoderma extract while no fibre was detected in the snail water. Aloe vera extract showed the highest level of carbohydrate while the lowest carbohydrate content was recorded in the earthworm extract. The results of the proximate analyses of the extracts showed that they are highly nutritious and can be used as remedies for various nutritional deficiencies and diseases. However, their usefulness in different cases would depend on their compositions.