Proximate and mineral composition of the leaves of Momordica balsamina L.: an under-utilized wild vegetable in Botswana.

Proximate and mineral analyses were conducted on the leaves of Momordica balsamina L., an under-utilized wild vegetable in Botswana. The protein, fibre, fat and ash contents were 288, 37, 54 and 127 g/kg, respectively. Potassium was the most abundant mineral at 27.05 g/kg, followed by magnesium (3.82 g/kg), phosphorus (3.24 g/kg), calcium (2.22 g/kg) and sodium (0.06 g/kg). Other minerals were zinc (0.39 g/kg), manganese (0.15 g/kg) and iron (0.14 g/kg). Compared with cabbage, lettuce and spinach, this wild vegetable contained more protein and fat, while the fibre content was less. Among the minerals analysed, the leaves of M. balsamina had higher values than those reported for the exotic vegetables, except for sodium. The wild vegetable could be promoted as a protein supplement for cereal-based diets in poor rural communities, while its high potassium content could be utilized for the management of hypertension and other cardiovascular conditions. The relatively high concentrations of zinc, iron and manganese could contribute towards combating the problem of micronutrient deficiencies.