Prunus africana's bark extract is used in treatment of prostate gland disorders among other uses. The dwindling of the species abundance in the wild necessitates its domestication. The first step is identification of desired germplasm. In this study, bark extracts from different Kenyan forest zones were compared for yield and chemical composition. Extraction was done using Debat (1974) procedure, while chemical composition was determined using chromatographic procedures. The extract yield showed a positive correlation with tree age, the best source being medium sized trees (30–50 cm dbh). Timboroa provenance had the highest extract yield (1.9%) while Kobujoi had the least (0.73%). Gas Liquid Chromatography analysis showed that Kakamega's extract had the highest number of compounds (8) and Eburu had the highest β-Sitosterol content. With Thin Layer Chromatography, Kinale provenance showed the highest number of compounds (11). The species diversity is therefore important for breeding purposes and should be conserved.

Authors: Gachie, P.K.; Koech, E.K.; Njunge, J.T.; Simons, A.J.; Ndalut, P.K.

Subjects: yields, bark products

Publication type: Journal Article, Non-ISI, Publication

Year: 2012

ISSN: 1472-8028

DOI: https://doi.org/10.1080/14728028.2012.662627