Estimation of phytochemical constituents and antioxidant potential of underutilized ethnobotanically important wild edible fruits of Manipur

Abstract

This paper presents investigation on ethnobotany, phytochemicals constituents and antioxidant potential of six selected wild edible fruits (WEFs) of Manipur. Ethnomedicinal data collected through a semi-structured questionnaire shows that there are different therapeutic possibilities of WEFs, practised by the local people. Phytochemical estimation observed Rhus semialata was the most acidic fruit (4.67 pH) with 0.73 % of titratable acidity and lowest solubility (20%). A strong negative and significant association was observed between pH and titratable acidity, r = -0.9, p < 0.01, while a moderate positive relationship between titratable acidity and solubility, r = 0.59, p < 0.01 and no significant relationship was observed between pH and solubility. The calorific value was found within the range of 198.48 - 458.59 kcal/100g. The phytochemical content was foremost in Phyllanthus emblica, including the antioxidant potential and vitamin C, except for tannin. Meanwhile, tannin was found highest in Spondias pinnata (67.63 ± 0.97 mg/g). Least total phenolic and tannin content was recorded in Vangueria spinosa. P. emblica shows the highest reducing capacity in both the analysis, i.e., total in-vitro antioxidant activity (159.06 ± 4.10 AAE mg/g) and FRAP assay (43.16 ± 0.05 AAE mg/g). In in-vitro antioxidant activity, Elaeocarpus floribundus (13.26 ± 0.10AAE mg/g) shows the lowest antioxidant activity. The inhibition percentage of the DPPH assay was in order of Phyllanthus emblica > Spondias pinnata > Rhus semialata > Elaeocarpus floribundus > Microcos paniculata > Vangueria spinosa. The fruit samples exhibit diverse antioxidant activity indicating an active response to the radical. The finding specifies the overall primary and secondary metabolites, and antioxidant properties of these underutilized wild edible fruits and validates their therapeutic values and future prospects. Value-added food products of the WEFs plant species may be promoted within and outside the state while assuring nutrient content and availability of products. Moreover, it will help improve the economic conditions local people, aiding financial condition by selling fruits and value-added products.