Multidirectional insights into nutritional, phytochemical, antioxidant capability and multivariate analysis of underutilized edible berry plant (Salacia macrosperma Wight) – A novel source for food and pharmaceutical industry

Abstract

Salacia species are routinely exercised as dietary supplements and pharmaceuticals. However, there is limited research on composition of nutrients, phytochemicals and bio-accessibility of S. macrosperma. This study depicted the composition of nutrients, phytochemicals and antioxidant properties of edible and non-edible parts of S. macrosperma. Seeds showed higher amount of proteins and moisture, whereas carbohydrates, total sugar, starch and fibre were abundant in the stem. Highest occurrence of Vitamin C was in immature and ripened fruits. Minerals such as calcium, nitrogen, sodium, iron and boron were identified as principal minerals in S. macrosperma. Higher quantity of total phenolics and flavonoids were reported in leaves and root bark respectively, whereas reverse-phase high performance liquid chromatography confirmed dominant occurrence of gallic acid in all plant parts. Gas chromatography-mass spectroscopic analysis identified 23 phytochemicals which had never been reported in S. macrosperma. The results confirmed the roots as foremost source of mangiferin. Methanolic leaf extract possesses maximum antioxidant properties followed by fruits. Multiple factor analysis and hierarchical cluster analysis established the possible relationship between studied parameters. Apart from edible berries, non-edible parts of S. macrosperma also possesses good amount of nutrients, phytochemicals and antioxidants which encourages its application as functional food and pharmaceuticals.