Proximate and Phytochemical Analysis of Three Species of Pepper Gotten From Relief Market, Owerri

The proximate and phytochemical analysis of three species of pepper (Capsicum frutescens, Capsicum annuum and Capsicum genus) were investigated. The three species of pepper was obtained from Relief Market in Owerri, Imo State, Nigeria. The three species of pepper were washed with distilled water and then sliced thinly (diameter of 0.1±1.0cm and the thickness of 3-4 mm) and then treated with Concentrated Chlorine solution. The samples were oven dried at temperature of 60OC for 24 hours. The samples were ground with a woring blender and stored in air-tight container. The result of the analysis showed that the proximate composition of Capsicum genus was significantly (P<0.05) higher than Capsicum frutescens and Capsicum annuum in moisture. Carbohydrate contents was significantly (P<0.05) higher in Capsicum annuum than Capsicum genus and Capsicum frutescens. Protein content of Capsicum frutescens was significantly (P<0.05) higher than Capsicum annuum and Capsicum genus. Capsicum annuum was significantly (P<0.05) higher than Capsicum genus and Capsicum frutescens in fat, insoluble and soluble fibre contents. Capsicum frutescens was significantly (P<0.05) higher than Capsicum genus and Capsicum annuum in ash contents. Phytochemical analysis showed that Capsicum genus was significantly (P<0.05) higher than Capsicum annuum and Capsicum frutescens in alkaloid content. Capsicum annuum was significantly (P<0.05) higher than Capsicum genus and Capsicum frutescens in flavonoid, saponin and tannin contents. Capsicum annuum was significantly (P<0.05) higher than Capsicum frutescens and Capsicum genus in terpenoid and carotenoid contents. Capsicum genus was significantly (P<0.05) higher than Capsicum annuum and Capsicum frutescens in glycosides content. Capsicum frutescens was significantly (P<0.05) higher than Capsicum genus and Capsicum annuum in anthraquinone contents. The analysis reveals that the three pepper varieties have high bioactive compounds that are of medicinal value and can be used to remediate diseases and sustain health.