Journal of Experimental Agriculture International

Background: Balsam spurge (Euphorbia balsamifera) contains phytochemical constituents that may be relevant to its assessment as a plant-derived feed resource.

Aim: This study characterised the qualitative and quantitative phytochemical constituents and proximate composition of leaves collected around Dutsin-Ma, Katsina State, Nigeria.

Methods: Leaves were collected, identified and shade-dried for seven days. Approximately 200 g of dried leaves were submitted to the Animal Care Konsolt (Nigeria) Ltd Feed Analysis and Quality Control Laboratory for phytochemical assessment, while dried samples were used for proximate analysis.

Results: The quantitative phytochemical screening recorded anthraquinones (35.50 mg/100 g), tannins (23.50 mg/100 g), alkaloids (19.38 mg/100 g), total phenolic content (6.98 MgGAE/100 g), quinones (6.25 mg/100 g), flavonoids (4.62 mg/100 g) and steroids (1.73 mg/100 g). Proximate analysis indicated dry matter (90.88%), moisture (9.12%), crude protein (5.98%), ether extract (2.80%), crude fibre (14.16%), ash (10.54%), nitrogen-free extract (57.41%) and carbohydrate content (67.95%). The reported metabolizable energy was 2409.290 kcal/kg.

Conclusion: These results establish a descriptive baseline for the sampled leaves and support further research into their potential use as a feed resource or phytogenic additive. However, compositional assessment does not demonstrate digestibility, animal performance, feeding efficacy or safety. Controlled feeding and dose-response studies are required before practical recommendations can be made.