Adequate nutrition continues to represent a major global public health challenge. In this context, medicinal plants have garnered increasing scientific interest due to their diverse biological activities and their potential applications in both human and animal nutrition. When incorporated into animal feed, these plants may serve as natural growth promoters and probiotics, thereby enhancing animal performance and health. Owing to their bioactive constituents, medicinal plants are widely utilized in veterinary and human medicine. In addition, they are considered promising natural alternatives to synthetic pesticides in agricultural production systems, as well as in post-harvest handling and the preservation of food and feed products [1].

Among these species, Cymbopogon citratus (DC.) Stapf occupies a prominent position. It is extensively valued by local populations in West Africa, particularly in Guinea, where it is traditionally used for both nutritional and therapeutic purposes. Commonly referred to as lemongrass, C.citratus belongs to the family Poaceae, a taxonomic group widely distributed worldwide that comprises more than 635 genera and approximately 9000 species. The genus Cymbopogon includes over 140 cultivated species, of which 52 have been reported in Africa, representing nearly 37% of the genus diversity on the continent [2]. C. citratus is an aromatic species primarily cultivated for its recognized therapeutic properties [3]. As aromatic and medicinal species, C. citratus is potential sources of natural antioxidants due to their content of secondary metabolites such as polyphenols, carotenoids, and essential oils [2][4][5]. Certain natural compounds, such as polyphenols, possess strong antioxidant and antibacterial properties. Polyphenols are natural antioxidants and antimicrobial agents present in almost all parts of plants [6]. C. citratus is commonly consumed as a tea or infusion prepared from its fresh or dried leaves. It is widely used in various cultures for its health-promoting effects, including stimulating digestion, lowering cholesterol levels, eliminating body toxins, and improving blood circulation. In India, the plant is traditionally used in the management of gastrointestinal disorders. In India, it is traditionally employed for the treatment of gastrointestinal disorders, whereas in China, it is consumed for its anxiolytic properties. In other countries, such as Brazil, it is valued for its antispasmodic, analgesic, and anti-inflammatory effects [7]-[9]. Although C. citratus (DC.) Stapf, particularly the variety cultivated in Guinea, is widely used in traditional Guinean medicinal practices in the form of herbal teas due to its moderate cost, its industrial exploitation in the beverage sector. Similar studies have been reported elsewhere, particularly on other varieties of this species, highlighting their interesting profiles in terms of mineral composition, bioactive constituents, and pharmacological activities [10][11]. The local market remains largely dominated by simple synthetic formulations in the form of decoctions.

Despite these socioeconomic and therapeutic advantages offered by C. citratus, very limited local scientific data on its biochemical and nutritional characteristics are available to the best of our knowledge. To fill this gap, this work aimed to conduct a physicochemical and nutritional analysis of extracts from this variety of C. citratus found in the prefecture of Coyah (Republic of Guinea).

The moisture content of the dried leaves (11.17%) (Table 1) indicates that the drying process was generally effective, although it is slightly higher than the optimal threshold for good preservation, typically around 10% [17][18]. This minor increase in moisture may be attributed to factors such as the initial water content of the leaves, the drying method employed, leaf thickness, drying duration, ambient environmental conditions, or relatively low drying temperatures. The dry matter content observed in this study (88.83% ± 1.44%) is comparable to the value reported by Prince et al. [19], confirming a low residual moisture level favorable for post-harvest preservation (13% ± 2.92%).

Regarding total ash, the value obtained in this study (6.27% ± 0.12%) was slightly lower than that reported by Unuigbe et al. [20] (7.63% ± 0.23%). This variation may reflect differences in mineral composition or the pedoclimatic conditions of the plant’s growth environment. Moderate ash content is generally considered indicative of a balanced mineral composition while limiting excessive accumulation of inorganic compounds [21].

Analysis of mineral elements (Table 2) revealed that C. citratusleaves contain significant amounts of essential minerals important for human health. Potassium was the predominant macroelement in this study, with a concentration of 2.528% ± 0.00%, highlighting its essential physiological roles in osmoregulation and nerve impulse transmission [22]. Silicon, the second most abundant element (1.578% ± 0.00%), may contribute to the strengthening of plant cell walls, although it is often not included in standard dietary intake assessments. Phosphorus, present at 0.174% ± 0.00%, is crucial for energy metabolism (ATP) and nucleic acid synthesis. Copper, an essential trace element, was detected at 0.003% ± 0.00%, remaining within the required thresholds for enzymatic functions [22]. In contrast, aluminum was present at 0.126% ± 0.00%, which warrants attention as it is not essential to human metabolism and may exert toxic effects when accumulated [23]. Sulfur, a key element involved in the synthesis of sulfur-containing amino acids such as cysteine and methionine, as well as certain B vitamins (B₁ and biotin), was found at 0.250%. This reflects the leaves’ richness in sulfur compounds, which may contribute to both their nutritional value and their antioxidant and antimicrobial activities [24]. Calcium, an essential macronutrient involved in cellular signaling, bone metabolism, membrane stability, and blood coagulation [25], was present at 0.980%, indicating a significant nutritional contribution. The total protein content (9.25% ± 0.12%) is considerable, suggesting that C. citratus leaves could serve as a valuable source of amino acids, particularly for populations relying predominantly on plant-based diets. These protein levels are comparable to those reported by Connor et al. [26] for certain edible green leafy vegetables. Combined with their carbohydrate content, these leaves may play an important role in preventing protein-energy malnutrition. Conversely, the low fat content (0.95%) indicates that this plant may be suitable for low-fat dietary regimens.

Overall, these findings demonstrate that Cymbopogon citratus leaves possess a balanced nutritional profile, characterized by substantial protein and essential mineral content, while maintaining a low lipid fraction. This nutritional composition underscores their potential as a valuable resource for human nutrition and for agro-food valorization.

Cymbopogon citratus represents a valuable source of essential nutrients and bioactive compounds, characterized by a physicochemical composition that supports both nutritional and therapeutic applications. Proximate analysis demonstrates a relatively high carbohydrate and protein content, accompanied by a low lipid fraction, thereby conferring appreciable energetic value while maintaining a favorable nutritional profile. Such a composition may be advantageous in the formulation of balanced dietary products aimed at energy supply without excessive fat intake. Beyond its macronutrient composition, C. citratus contains significant levels of essential minerals, including calcium, iron, potassium, and phosphorus. These micronutrients play pivotal roles in numerous physiological and metabolic processes. Calcium and phosphorus are essential for bone mineralization and skeletal integrity; iron is fundamental for hemoglobin synthesis and oxygen transport; and potassium contributes to electrolyte balance, neuromuscular function, and blood pressure regulation. The presence of these elements enhances the plant’s nutritional relevance and supports its traditional use in phytotherapy.

Moreover, the combined nutritional and mineral profile of C. citratus, together with its documented antioxidant potential, strengthens for the development of nutraceutical formulations and functional foods. Its incorporation into dietary interventions could contribute to improving nutritional status, mitigating micronutrient deficiencies, and reducing the risk of pathologies associated with oxidative stress and metabolic imbalance. Consequently, C. citratus emerges as a multifunctional botanical resource with significant potential in preventive nutrition and health.