Abstract The leaves and stem bark of Balanites aegyptiaca are popularly consumed as vegetables or herbs in Adamawa state of Nigeria. In view of its importance in Hong local government area, the leaves and stem bark were collected from 10 locations for elemental and phytochemical determination. Atomic absorption spectrophotometer (AAS) was employed for the elemental determination. The results obtained contained some essential elements (Na, K, Mg and Ca) in the leaves and stem bark. For heavy metals, Cd was recorded in the entire samples analyzed, Cu was found in four locations (Gaya, Mugili, Pubba and Uba), and Zn was only recorded in the leaves and stem bark from two locations (Pubba and Mugili respectively). Pb was not observed in the entire samples by the instrument used. Quantitative methods were used for phytochemical screening. Tannin was recorded in the samples investigated while flavonoid and saponin were recorded in some areas. The essential elements and phytochemicals revealed could be good source of minerals and herbs.
Keyword: Phytochemical, Element, Balanites aegyptiaca, herbs, mineral.