Samanea saman, a multi-purpose tree with potentialities as alternative feed for animals of productive interest

Abstract

For demonstrating the raintree (Samanea saman (Jacq.) potentiality as feed for animals of productive interest, the chemical composition was studied in the foliage, fruit and seeds: dry matter, crude protein, ash, neutral detergent fiber, acid detergent fiber, lignin, calcium and phosphorus concentration and presence of secondary metabolites. The existence of the main secondary metabolites, among them saponins and tannins was moderate or slight in all the studied fractions. Seeds contribute significantly to the nutritional value of the fruit. It is concluded that the fruits as well as the S. saman foliage contain acceptable levels of protein and minerals, moderate to slight presence of secondary metabolites and low levels of fiber, characterizing them as adequate forage resources for complementing the nutrient deficit in grazing ruminants and in other productive species. The foliage is less palatable, but presents antimicrobial and antioxidant properties that can justify its use.

Key words: raintree (Samanea saman), foliage, fruits, nutritional value, alternative medicine