Abstract
 
Background: Pterocarpus mildbraedii is used in some Nigerian tribes in the treatment of headaches, pains, fever, convulsions, and res-piratory disorders. This study was carried out to ascertain the phytochemicals, minerals and in vitro antioxidant activities of Pterocarpus
mildbraedii leaves.  
Methods: Qualitative phytochemical screening was carried out using standard procedures while Mineral analysis was carried out using
Atomic  Absorption Spectrophotometer  (AAS).  Also,  antioxidant  activities  of Pterocarpus  mildbraedii leaves  were  evaluated  using  re-ducing power ability and 2,2-Diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) radical scavenging assays.
Results: Result  on  phytochemicals  reveals  the  presence  of  flavonoids,  saponins,  alkaloids,  tannins.  Mineral  analysis  showed  calcium
(1283mg/kg)  to  be  higher  in  concentration  and  manganese  (4mg/kg)  least  in  concentration  (4mg/kg).  Other  analysed  minerals  include
sodium  (603mg/kg),  potassium  (1048mg/kg),  magnesium  (778mg/kg),  zinc  (25mg/kg),  iron  (146mg/kg),  phosphates  (1002mg/kg),  etc.
In vitro antioxidant activity results show that Pterocarpus mildbraedii possess potent but dose-dependent reducing power ability and free
radical scavenging activity against 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) radicals.
Conclusion: The  presence  of  phytochemicals  such as  flavonoids,  saponins,  alkaloids  and tannins in Pterocarpus  mildbraedii provides
some biochemical basis for the ethno pharmacological uses of the plant. Also the information provided in this research study may help to
spread  the  ethno  botanical  uses  of Pterocarpus  mildbraedii leaves  to  other  parts  of  the  World.  The  findings  clearly  demonstrate  that
Pterocarpus mildbraedii leaves have promising antioxidant property and needs further evaluation to exploit its therapeutic potential.