Abstract

SECONDARY METABOLITES AND NUTRITIONAL VALUE PROFILING OF COLOCASIA ESCULENTA

Vaibhavi G. Nakharekar and Dr. Chanda V. Berde*

Abstract

Colocasia esculenta is a green leafy vegetable which is the rich source of proteins, carbohydrates, dietary fibers and vitamins as well as minerals like iron, potassium, sodium, zinc etc. It is also recognized for its color, flavor and therapeutic value. Green leafy vegetables play an important role in management of various diseases because of it‟s inability to cause side effects. The present study was designed to investigate the nutritional value, antioxidant activity, haemolytic activity, antibacterial properties and phytochemical components of the Colocasia esculenta. Qualitative analysis indicates the presence of alkaloids, saponins, phenols and coumarin. The leaf extract showed presence of high antioxidant and haemolytic activities. The plant extract exerted a better antifungal activity as compared to antibacterial activity. The present study revealed that, the vegetable is good source of macro-nutrients and micro-nutrients. Hence regular consumption of these vegetables can meet the nutritional requirements to overcome the micronutrient malnutrition at minimum cost.

Keywords: Phytochemicals, Antioxidants, Haemolytic, Nutritional value