Studies on the compositions of nutmeg and mace (Myristica fragrans Houtt.) from Tellicherry and Kannur region, Kerala

摘要

Studies on the fruits of the nutmeg tree, Myristica fragrans Floutt. (family : Myriticaceae) were carried out for the two different parts of the fruit, that is nutmeg and mace collected from Tellicherry and Kannur area (Kerala). The dried material was studied using HPLC and other laboratory techniques. The major compounds identified were carbohydrate, starch, reducing sugars, protein, phenol, fat and fatty acids and minerals like K, Ca, Fe, Cu, Zn and Mn. Essential oils were also identified. The chemical composition obtained was compared with the information already available in literature for other parts of the country. The results obtained are promising due to the quality and quantity of the various chemical compounds present in the nutmeg and mace available in Tellicherry and Kannur area. The study also revealed the importance of the area of cultivation. Due to the medicinal importance the study is very much interesting.