Physio-chemical and Phytochemical Characteristics of a Lesser-known Wild Edible Fruit of Mizoram, Elaeagnus pyriformis Hook. F. (Family Elaeagnaceae): Need for its Proper Domestication

Abstract

The lesser-known yet incredibly nourishing wild edible fruit Elaeagnus pyriformis Hook.f. is found in the north-eastern mountainous states of India. Elaeagnus pyriformis fruits were collected from three villages in Champhai District, Mizoram, with the goal of analysing their physio-chemical and phytochemical qualities in order to determine its potential for domestication. Measurements were made of the fruit's physical characteristics, including its length, diameter, weight, and moisture content. Juice was extracted, and total soluble solids (TSS), titrable acidity, ascorbic acid, reducing sugar, total sugar, non-reducing sugar, and sugar:acid ratio were among the chemical parameters that were examined afterward. The existence of several beneficial substances was determined by phytochemical screening. Physical and chemical differences between the samples from various villages were found to be significantly varied, according to the results. Ruantlang produced the highest titrable acidity, whereas Zotlang had the maximum fruit weight, length, TSS, reducing sugar, total sugar, non-reducing sugar, and flavonoid content. Fruit diameter, the ratio of sugar to acid, and the total phenolic content were all highest in Hmunhmeltha. The fruit's phytochemical examination identified flavonoids, terpenoids, alkaloids, tannins, and cardiac glycosides.