Title: Phytochemicals in Nigerian Traditional Foods: A Nutritional and Medicinal Perspective
Authors: Ahmed Attahiru
Volume: 9
Issue: 8
Pages: 98-101
Publication Date: 2025/08/28
Abstract:
Nigeria is endowed with a wide array of traditional foods derived from indigenous crops, many of which are rich in phytochemicals that confer both nutritional and therapeutic benefits. This review explores the occurrence, classes, and biological activities of phytochemicals in common Nigerian traditional foods. Emphasis is placed on flavonoids, alkaloids, tannins, saponins, phenolic acids, terpenoids, and other bioactive compounds found in legumes, cereals, vegetables, fruits, and oilseeds. Their health-promoting properties, including antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, antidiabetic, and anticancer effects, are discussed. The role of traditional food processing methods in enhancing or diminishing phytochemical content is also highlighted. This synthesis supports the valorization of Nigerian food biodiversity and provides scientific justification for their incorporation into functional food and nutraceutical development.