Evaluation of Nutritive, Antioxidant and Mineral Composition in Wild Edible Rhizomes of Pouzolzfa hirta Linn

摘要

The minerals, antioxidants and nutrients composition of Pouzolzia hirta rhizomes were determined. The aim of this study is search of new source of nutrients. The rhizomes of Pouzolzia hirta (Urticaceae) were collected from Pithoragarh District, Uttaranchal, India and authentic identification was done at B.S.I. Dehradun. The fine rhizomes powder so obtained was used for further nutrients, antioxidants and minerals analysis. The plant rhizomes contain P-carotene, vitamin C, phenolics and tannins (22.77, 108.40, 230.59 and 1663.84 mg 100 g~(-1)), respectively. The rhizomes have been found rich in nutrients such as crude protein, carbohydrate and crude fiber (4.24, 36.52 and 12.35 g 100 g~(-1)), respectively. The rhizomes of the plant have also been found rich in minerals such as Na, K, Ca, S, P, Fe, Mn, Cu and Zn (157.69, 4106.36, 178.42, 464.06, 216.32, 83.04, 8.49, 3.61 and 16.68 mg 100 g~(-1)), respectively. The plants rhizomes powder mixed with wheat and maize flours are used traditionally to makechapatti. In this investigation the plant rhizomes are found as good alternative source of foods.