Polyphenols and antioxidants in bottle gourd seed oils.

| Posted in: Scientific

Journal name: World Journal of Pharmaceutical Research
Original article title: Lagenaria siceraria (molina) standley. total polyphenols and antioxidant activity of seed oils of bottle gourd cultivars
The WJPR includes peer-reviewed publications such as scientific research papers, reports, review articles, company news, thesis reports and case studies in areas of Biology, Pharmaceutical industries and Chemical technology while incorporating ancient fields of knowledge such combining Ayurveda with scientific data.
This page presents a generated summary with additional references; See source (below) for actual content.

Summary of article contents:

1) Introduction

The study investigates the polyphenol content and antioxidant activity of seed oils extracted from four cultivars of bottle gourd (Lagenaria siceraria). These cultivars are the water jug-globose head, African wine gourd, speckled swan, and water jug-hourglass shape. The researchers used spectrophotometric methods to measure total phenolics and flavonoids in the seed oils, demonstrating variability among the cultivars. Overall, the findings indicate that these seed oils possess significant antioxidant properties, suggesting their potential role as beneficial edible oils that could contribute positively to human health.

2) Total Phenolic and Flavonoid Content

The evaluation of the total phenolic and flavonoid content in the bottle gourd seed oils revealed noteworthy results. Total phenolic content ranged from 8.0 to 10.5 mg gallic acid equivalent per 100g of oil, while flavonoids were measured between 5.6 and 7.7 mg quercetin equivalent per 100g. Among the cultivars, the water jug-globose head showed the highest phenolic content, and each cultivar exhibited differences likely related to their morphological characteristics. These findings highlight the potential health benefits of these oils, particularly as sources of natural antioxidants important for human nutrition.

3) Antioxidant Activity

The study reported significant antioxidant effects of the seed oils, determined through various assays including DPPH radical scavenging, metal chelating, and ferric reducing power tests. The DPPH assay illustrated that the seed oils exhibited varying levels of free radical scavenging, with the African wine kettle cultivar showing the highest activity. In metal chelating activities, the seed oils also demonstrated considerable effectiveness, protecting against oxidative stress by binding transition metals. The results underscore the potential of these oils as natural preservatives and health-promoting agents.

4) Practical Applications and Medicinal Potential

Given their substantial antioxidant activity, the seed oils of Lagenaria siceraria cultivars have promising practical applications in food and medicinal industries. These oils can contribute to the formulation of functional foods enriched with essential nutrients and bioactive compounds that may reduce the risk of chronic diseases. Additionally, the study emphasizes the need to renew interest in the cultivation of these gourds in Nigeria, where these seeds have traditionally been underutilized despite their potential health benefits.

5) Conclusion

The findings from the study demonstrate that the seed oils of Lagenaria siceraria contain considerable amounts of phenolic compounds, particularly flavonoids, and exhibit significant antioxidant activity. These oils could be valuable natural sources of medicinal compounds, enhancing human diet with their unique health benefits. Furthermore, the research advocates for the exploration and commercial use of these oils in various applications, thereby encouraging the cultivation of bottle gourd cultivars beyond their conventional uses as container materials.

Original source:

This page is merely a summary which is automatically generated hence you should visit the source to read the original article which includes the author, publication date, notes and references.

Author:

Emmanuel E. Essien, Bassey S. Antia and Nimmong-uwem S. Peter


World Journal of Pharmaceutical Research:

(An ISO 9001:2015 Certified International Journal)

Full text available for: Lagenaria siceraria (molina) standley. total polyphenols and antioxidant activity of seed oils of bottle gourd cultivars

Source type: An International Peer Reviewed Journal for Pharmaceutical and Medical and Scientific Research


Download the PDF file of the original publication


FAQ section (important questions/answers):

What was the aim of the study on Lagenaria siceraria?

The study aimed to evaluate the total polyphenols and antioxidant activity of seed oils from four bottle gourd cultivars, highlighting their potential as edible medicinal oils.

How were total phenolic and flavonoid contents measured?

Total phenolics and flavonoids were measured spectrophotometrically using the Folin-Ciocalteu assay and the aluminum chloride colorimetric method, respectively.

What were the findings regarding antioxidant activity?

Antioxidant activities included DPPH radical-scavenging, metal chelating, and ferric reducing power, with varying effectiveness among the cultivars tested.

Which bottle gourd cultivar had the highest total phenolic content?

The water jug-globose head (GHWJ) cultivar exhibited the highest total phenolic content of 10.5 mg gallic acid/100g among the studied cultivars.

How can Lagenaria siceraria seeds be utilized?

Seeds of these cultivars can be utilized for their antioxidant-rich oils in food applications, potentially providing health benefits and nutrition.

What health benefits may these seed oils offer?

The seed oils may help reduce the risk of chronic diseases due to their rich content of antioxidants and medicinal properties.

Glossary definitions and references:

Scientific and Ayurvedic Glossary list for “Polyphenols and antioxidants in bottle gourd seed oils.”. This list explains important keywords that occur in this article and links it to the glossary for a better understanding of that concept in the context of Ayurveda and other topics.

1) Activity:
The term 'Activity' refers to the functional capacity or the biochemical effects of substances, such as antioxidants in seed oils. In the context of this study, it underscores the ability of these compounds to exhibit beneficial effects, particularly in scavenging free radicals and contributing to health improvements through natural sources.

2) Water:
Water is a fundamental solvent and medium for many biochemical processes. In the study, mature fruits are washed and prepared using water, emphasizing its role in the extraction process. It is essential in maintaining the integrity of biological samples and in dissolving compounds for various analytical measurements.

3) Flavonoid:
Flavonoids are biologically active compounds found in many plants. They possess antioxidant properties, crucial for protecting cells from oxidative stress. In this research, the focus on flavonoid content in seed oils highlights their nutritional benefits and potential roles in mitigating chronic diseases through dietary intake.

4) Study (Studying):
The term 'Study' denotes an organized method of inquiry designed to investigate specific hypotheses or phenomena. This study explores the polyphenol content and antioxidant activity in Lagenaria siceraria seed oils, contributing to the broader understanding of their health benefits and potential applications in nutrition and medicine.

5) Food:
Food is essential for providing nutrients necessary for human growth and health. The study suggests using seed oils in food applications to enhance nutrition. Highlighting their antioxidant activity indicates a potential role in food preservation and improving the nutritional profile of diets through the inclusion of beneficial compounds.

6) Table:
In scientific research, a 'Table' organizes and presents data systematically for clarity and comparison. Tables in this study summarize the phenolic and flavonoid content, providing a visual means to comprehend the variations across different cultivars, thereby facilitating easier interpretation of results and analysis of the data.

7) Wine:
In this context, 'Wine' refers to the term 'African wine gourd,' describing a specific cultivar of bottle gourd. This connection highlights the cultural significance and the various uses of Lagenaria siceraria, emphasizing its adaptability and potential uses beyond mere culinary applications, including in traditional practices.

8) Disease:
The term 'Disease' relates to pathological conditions affecting health. The study indicates that the antioxidant properties of Lagenaria siceraria seed oils might play a role in addressing oxidative stress-induced diseases. This suggests a potential therapeutic application for these oils in preventing or managing chronic health conditions.

9) Diet:
Diet encompasses the foods and beverages consumed by individuals. Highlighting its importance, the study implies that incorporating Lagenaria siceraria seed oils into a diet may enhance health benefits due to their antioxidant content. This speaks to the significance of dietary choices in promoting overall well-being.

10) Rich (Rch):
The term 'Rich' describes the abundance of nutrients or beneficial compounds found in a substance. In this study, describing the seed oils as 'rich' in antioxidants positions them as valuable dietary additions, suggesting that their use may confer significant health advantages due to their concentrated beneficial properties.

11) Soil:
Soil is critical for agricultural production and plant growth, providing nutrients and a medium for root systems. The study's references to cultivars emphasize the relationship between the quality of soil and the phenolic content found in various Lagenaria siceraria. Soil health directly affects crop yield and nutrient profile.

12) Human body:
The 'Human body' refers to the complex system of biological functions and structures that sustain life. The study discusses the effects of antioxidants from seed oils on the human body, suggesting their potential protective roles in health, particularly against oxidative stress, which can damage cells and tissues.

13) Inflammation:
Inflammation is a biological response to harmful stimuli, which may contribute to chronic diseases. The study's reference to anti-inflammatory properties associated with Lagenaria siceraria seed oils highlights their potential health benefits in reducing inflammation, thereby suggesting their utility in dietary approaches to manage or prevent various health issues.

14) Measurement:
Measurement refers to the quantitative assessment of a variable. In this study, it encompasses the processes used to determine total polyphenols and antioxidant activity in seed oils, emphasizing precision and accuracy in analyzing the results to draw valid conclusions about the health benefits of these oils.

15) Discussion:
Discussion is the section of a research article where findings are interpreted and contextualized within existing knowledge. In this study, the discussion revolves around the implications of the antioxidant activities observed in Lagenaria siceraria seed oils, integrating results with current literature to underscore their significance in health.

16) Substance:
The term 'Substance' refers to a physical material or chemical compound. In the study, it pertains to the seed oils from Lagenaria siceraria, highlighting their composition and how the substance's properties, particularly antioxidants, can impact food applications and human health, thus revealing its potential as a dietary component.

17) Container:
The term 'Container' in the context of Lagenaria siceraria refers to its use in traditional practices for crafting utensils and storage. While the study focuses on seeds and oils, the historical use of bottle gourds as containers reflects the multifunctionality of the plant beyond nutritional applications.

18) Relative:
The term 'Relative' indicates a relationship or comparison among variables. In the study, it is used to establish how the antioxidant activity of Lagenaria siceraria seed oils compares with standard antioxidants. This helps assess their effectiveness in health applications relative to more commonly known compounds.

19) Quality:
Quality denotes the inherent properties or features of a substance that determine its value. In this research, the quality of seed oils is assessed based on their phenolic content and antioxidant activity, thereby emphasizing their potential as high-quality sources of health-promoting compounds in nutrition and medicine.

20) Mineral:
Minerals are inorganic nutrients vital for bodily functions. The study mentions metal chelation conducted by seed oils, which suggests their capability to bind with minerals like iron. This action is significant because it prevents oxidative stress and can support overall health by regulating mineral levels in the body.

21) Surface:
Surface refers to the outer layer or boundary of a material. In the context of this research, it can relate to the physical properties of seed oils and how they interact chemically. Effective extraction methods may depend on surface interactions, highlighting the role of physical characteristics in the oil's properties.

22) Family:
Family in the biological classification categorizes related plants. The term refers to Cucurbitaceae, the family to which Lagenaria siceraria belongs. Understanding its familial connections helps connect ecological traits, growth conditions, and potential health benefits, forming a basis for studies regarding agricultural practices and nutritional applications.

23) Botany:
Botany is the scientific study of plants. Knowledge in botany aids in the classification and understanding of the diverse forms of Lagenaria siceraria. In this study, botanical insights inform decisions regarding cultivation, utilization, and potential benefits of the plant, thus enhancing agricultural practices and food science.

24) India:
India, as a geographical and cultural reference, denotes regions where various cultivars of Lagenaria siceraria have been researched. Including India highlights the diversity in cultivation practices, morphological varieties, and potential applications in traditional and modern settings, enriching the understanding of this plant's relevance in global agriculture.

25) Glass:
Glass refers to the transparent material commonly used in containers. While not directly related to the study, the mention of 'glass' may imply contexts of storage or handling of liquids, such as seed oils. Highlighting storage methods can contribute to discussions about preservation and practicality of use.

26) Fever:
Fever is a symptom indicating illness, often inflammatory in nature. The cultural and medicinal use of Lagenaria siceraria seeds for treating fever emphasizes their anticipated therapeutic properties. The study illustrates the plant's relevance in traditional medicine, contributing to its potential role in clinical dietary applications.

27) Hemp:
Hemp refers to a plant noted for its fibrous stalks and nutritional seeds. Including hemp in the discussion on seed oils positions it as a comparison for high-quality oil production, enhancing the conversation about plant-based oils and their varied uses in health, nutrition, and industry.

28) Flax:
Flax is a plant recognized for its seeds and oil, valued for omega-3 fatty acids and health benefits. Mentioning flax alongside Lagenaria siceraria positions it within a broader discourse on edible oils, highlighting the significance of various seed oils in nutrition and the health sector.

29) Rice (Rce):
Rice is a staple food crop globally. The mention of rice in the context of oil richness underscores the importance of diverse plant sources for nutrition. This serves to compare the nutritional profiles of various oils, enhancing comprehension of food options within dietary practices.

30) Crop:
Crop refers to cultivated plants grown for food or other uses. In this study, discussing Lagenaria siceraria as a crop emphasizes its agricultural and nutritional significance, encouraging exploration into its cultivation practices and potential economic benefits, especially for local farmers and food sustainability.

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