Amorphophallus campanulatus: An Untold Story of a Potent Nutraceutical- Part I

Abstract

The study aims to analyze the proximate composition, mineral and vitamin content as well as active components present in the popularly consumed tuber of West Bengal, Amorphophallus campanulatus. Medicinal plants are potential sources of biomolecules and their analogues have great relevance in the preparation of modern medicines. They are also good source of essential nutrients and minerals that contribute to the wellbeing of an individual. On proper supplementation through diet, they can acquire, convert, allocate, distribute and pave way for proper utilization of all the essential components in the biological system So this popular tuberous crop of south-east Asia that has its mention in the Indian ancient medicinal system, Ayurveda, is taken into consideration to analyze its nutritional components. The plant species were collected from farmers of Santragachhi, Howrah district and authenticated by Botanical Survey of India, Howrah district, West Bengal, India. Fresh tubers were analyzed for their content of crude proteins, total carbohydrate, soluble carbohydrate, fat, fibre, ash, moisture, carotenoids and vitamins. With the aid of an inductively coupled plasma atomic spectrometer, the ash's mineral content was analyzed. Phytochemical constituents were separated using gas chromatography and components detected by mass spectrometry. According to the study, Amorphophallus campanulatus tubers have high levels of crude protein, moisture, fibre, ash, and vitamins E and C. In addition, the tuber contains practically all of the necessary macro- and micronutrients. It's fascinating that the tuber is a significant supplier of salt, potassium, and calcium. Additionally, the tuber is devoid of heavy metals including arsenic, lead, cadmium and mercury. None the less the tuber also contains several nutraceutical components that have several health benefits. Thus, the study's findings make a significant contribution to our understanding of the full nutritional profile of this tuber, which may encourage increased use for the maintenance of a healthy lifestyle and future attention to its therapeutic potential.