Determination Of Iron (Fe) Content In Leaf Extract Of Sweet Potato (Ipomoea batatas) Using Complexometry Methods

Abstract

Background: Iron (Fe) is an essential mineral that plays a very important role in the formation of hemoglobin, oxygen transportation, and various metabolic processes of the body. Iron deficiency can cause serious health problems, one of which is iron deficiency anemia, which is widely experienced, especially in women of childbearing age. This condition can reduce the quality of life, productivity, and even affect the development of future generations. Therefore, the search for natural iron sources that are easily available, affordable and safe is needed. One of the potential plants is purple sweet potato leaves (Ipomoea batatas), which is known to have high nutritional content, including iron, but has not been optimally utilized. Objective: This study aims to determine the iron content in purple sweet potato leaf extract using the complexometric method with Na₂EDTA solution as titrant and Eriochrome Black T indicator. Methods: Extraction was carried out through maceration method using 96% ethanol, then iron levels were determined through complexometric titration. As a comparison, the drug Sangobion, which is known to contain iron, was used. Results: The results showed that the iron content in purple sweet potato leaf extract was 28.96 mg/mL, while in Sangobion it was 29.34 mg/mL. Conclusion: These results indicate that purple sweet potato leaf extract has a competitive iron content and has the potential to be an alternative natural iron source that is competitive, safe and has the opportunity to be further developed in the pharmaceutical and public health fields.