ABSTRACT

The effect of three drying methods and pretreatment on the phytochemicals of Bryophyllum pinnatum leaves was investigated. Samples of fresh Bryophyllum pinnatum were harvested, washed and the initial phytochemicals determined. The samples were divided into three groups based on the pretreatments. Group 1 @erforated), group 2 (sliced), and group 3 (not treated in any form). From each of the groups, at least one sample was selected to form another group of three (A, B, C). Group A (used for hot- air cabinet drying), group B (used for active convectional solar drying) and group C (used for direct sun drying). The phytochemical of Bryophyllum pinnatum leaves were determined using standard methods and data collected were analyzed statistically using Dunan multiple range. Results showed that drying and pretreatment have significant effect (p< 0.05) on the phytochemicals. The drying method and pretreatment resulted in significant increases in drying rate. It is therefore recommended that fresh Bryophyllum pinnatum leaves should be used fresh without drying and without the use of pretreatment in terms of extracting the complete quantity of the phytochemicals. For fast drying and storage purposes, slicing and active solar cabinet drying method is recommended.