Phytochemical and Physicochemical Assessment of Quercus semecarpifolia Leaves in the North-West Himalaya

Abstract

Present investigation deals with to check the phytochemical and physicochemical analysis of Quercus semecarpifolia leaves collected from different districts (Shimla, Mandi, Kangra and Kullu) of Himachal Pradesh, India. The experiment was conducted within the laboratory of Shoolini University campus. Physicochemical and phytochemical properties of the leaves showed nonsignificant variations in five parameters (total ash, ether extract, nitrogen free extract, carbohydrates, and saponin content) and significant variations were shown in six parameters (crude fiber, acid detergent fiber, neutral detergent fiber, crude protein, tannin content and total phenols) in Mandi, Kangra and Kullu districts. Q. semecarpifolia is evergreen, easily available fodder tree which is a high-quality forage for livestock to fulfill the deficiency of protein and help to improve animal metabolism, health, growth, and productivity.