Nutritional and Toxicological Evaluation of Grewia asiatica (Phalsa) Powder Used as a Summer Drink

摘要

Grewia asiatica (Phalsa) is indigenous to Pakistan and is most commonly used in summer season, but it could not be kept for long. For this reason dried phalsa powder was prepared and its nutritional value was investigated to assess the numerous potential of this plant fruit. The results exhibited that the dried powder contains nutritional value (carbohydrates, protein, fat, fiber, minerals and energy) four times as compared to phalsa fruit. For acute oral toxicity test, the dried phalsa powder was tested on healthy laboratory animals in a dose of 0.45g/kg body weight and 0.90g/kg body weight and compared with the standard marketed product Tang (orange) in recommended dose. The test drink passed acute oral toxicity test showing no sign of toxicity within 72 hours claimed period. The gross behavioral observation of animals showed that the drink is energizing and CNS stimulant and no mortality was recorded during experimental period. Autopsy findings showed no gross changes. All vital organs i.e. heart, liver, spleen, lungs and kidneys were found normal as a result of which it can be concluded that during processing of fresh fruit in dried powder and addition of preservatives no hazardous material like toxins were produced. So it can be used safely.