Chemical profiles and proximate analysis of n-hexane extract of Terminalia catappa kernel from Nigeria

Background: Terminalia catappa is a traditionally consumed edible plant used for various health conditions. This study aimed to characterise the phytochemical profile, nutritional composition, and acute oral toxicity of the n-hexane extract of Terminalia catappa nuts. Methods: Gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS) analysis was conducted to determine the phytochemical profile of the n-hexane extract of Terminalia catappa nuts. Proximate analysis was performed to evaluate the nutritional composition. Acute oral toxicity testing was carried out in Wistar rats as per OECD Guideline 425 to assess safety. Results: The phytochemical analysis identified 19 bioactive compounds in the Terminalia catappa nut extract. The major components were cis-vaccenic acid (24.493%), propyleneglycol monoleate (23.783%), and mitotane (14.186%). Proximate analysis revealed the nuts to be rich sources of fat (56.71%) and protein (26.30%). The median lethal dose (LD50) of the n-hexane extract in rats was greater than 5000 mg/kg, indicating a high margin of safety. Conclusions: This work provides valuable insights into the nutritional potential and safety profile of Terminalia catappa nuts. Phytochemical characterisation corroborates traditional uses, while the acute toxicity data establishes the relative safety of the n-hexane extract when consumed at high doses.