Vol. 6, Issue 10 (2017)

Author(s):
SP Anand, S Deborah and G Velmurugan

Abstract:
The aim of the present study is to evaluate the nutritional profile, phytochemical screening and antimicrobial activity of wild edible fruits of Catunaregam spinosa. The fruits have been found to rich in nutrients such as crude fiber (12.6%), ash content (11.3%), moisture content (25%), protein (12.5%), lipids (0.018%) and carbohydrates (60.28%) with the energy value of 292±0.7 kcal/100g respectively. The phytochemical screening for the presence of flavonoids, saponin, phenol, tannins, alkaloids, anthraquinones, cardiac glycosides, phlobatannins, terpenoids and steroid in ethanol extract. Ethanol and chloroform extracts of C. spinosa showed maximum zone of inhibition against Bacillus subtilis followed by Klebseila pneumonia, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Escherichia coli and Salmonella typhi. Aqueous extracts of the C.spinosa showed maximum zone of inhibition against Klebseila pneumonia and Bacillus subtilis. The results showed that the fruits contained higher value of energy level required per day by a person. Consumption of fruits may promote good health and well-being as well as reduce the risk of chronic diseases. These findings confirm that the C. spinosa fruit has a potential source for the formulation of new therapeutic drugs.