Nutrient characterization and proximate analysis of carbonized, non-carbonized vermicast (earthwormcast) as a potential remedy for some ailments in Nigeria

Abstract

Vermicasts are organic products released by worms (such as earthworm) in the forms of casts. These vermicasts are widely used as plant growth regulators and more importantly as disease inhibitors. However, no logical study has been undertaken to determine the efficacy of this natural cast. The present study was aimed at determining micronutrients (Cu, Fe, Mn and Zn) and macro-nutrients (K, Mg and P) of both carbonized and non-carbonized samples. The vermicasts were collected from Forestry Research Institute of Nigeria (FRIN) herbal garden and the nutrients of the vermicasts (carbonized and noncarbonized) were characterized using Atomic Absorbance Spectrophotometer (AAS). The result showed variation in the amount of macro and micronutrients in the both samples of vermicasts (carbonized and non-carbonized). The carbonized vermicast contained significantly high content (Mn, Zn, Fe and Cu) (mg/kg) of the micronutrients while content of the macronutrients was significantly higher in Calcium and Potassium. These mineral nutrients are implicated to be used effectively for the management of some diseases which include cardiovascular disease, helminthiases, neurodegenerative disorders and pile.

Keywords: vermicast,macro and micro-nutrients, diseases, remedies