CHAPTER ONE

INTRODUCTION

• Background of the Study

Phyllanthus amarus (P. amarus) is a broad spectrum mechanical plant that has received world-word recognition (Srividiya and pervalslaas).  In Nigeria, it is called “Oyomokeisoamankedem” in Efik, “Iyin Olobe” in Yoruba and “Ebebenizo” in Bini (Etta, 2008). P. amarus is generally employed to reduce pain, expel intestine gas, to stimulate and promote digestion, as anti-helminthes to expel intestinal worms and act as a mild laxative. P. amarus also has antiseptic, diaretic, antiral, anti-diabetic, hypertensive and anti pyretic properties, and is also used in the treatment  of jaundice, diarrhea, dysentery, wound, ulcers and urogenital disease (Calixto et al., 1998).

The plants of the genus Phyllanthus are widely distributed in most typical and subtropical countries and have long been used in traditional medicine to treat chronic liver disease (Liu et al., 2003). Phyllanthus amarus is an ethnobotanical plant that grows well in most, shady and sunny places. It is known by several other name as carry-me-seed, chanca piedra and quinine weed to mention but a few (Adedapo et al., 2005).

• Aims and Objectives of the Study

The aims of this work is to determine the macro-element composition in Phyllantus amarus leaves. The objective of the study are;

• To determine the calcium level of Phyllanthus amarus leaves
• To determine the sodium level of Phyllanthus amarus leaves
• To determine the potassium level of Phyllanthus amarus leaves
• To determine the magnesium level of Phyllanthus amarus leaves