Nutritional Benefits and Antioxidant Power of Limilla Fruit

Jenn Hoskins
15th August, 2024

Nutritional Benefits and Antioxidant Power of Limilla Fruit

Image Source: Natural Science News, 2024

Key Findings

  • Researchers at Tecnológico Nacional de México studied Rhus aromatica fruit from Michoacán, Mexico, focusing on its nutritional value and antioxidant capacity
  • The fruit is nutrient-dense, containing 30.6% lipids, 8.7% proteins, 29.4% total sugars, and 18.7% crude fiber
  • Rhus aromatica has high antioxidant activity, with significant polyphenol and flavonoid content, making it comparable to other nutritious fruits
Rhus aromatica, a plant species found in the humid oak and oak-pine forests of Michoacán, Mexico, has traditionally been used in the preparation of various local foods and beverages. A recent study conducted by researchers at Tecnológico Nacional de México[1] aimed to investigate the physical and chemical properties of Rhus aromatica fruit, focusing on its nutritional value and antioxidant capacity. The study revealed several noteworthy findings about the fruit's physical characteristics. The fruit has a longitudinal diameter of 6.58 ± 1.02 mm, an equatorial diameter of 7.17 ± 0.66 mm, a weight of 55.22 ± 5.47 mg, and a pulp proportion of 40%. These measurements provide a basic understanding of the fruit's size and composition, which is crucial for further nutritional analysis. Chemical characterization of the fruit showed it contains 8.7% moisture, 30.6% lipids, 8.7% proteins, 29.4% total sugars, 3.8% ash, and 18.7% crude fiber. The fruit also has a caloric intake of 4.27 kcal/g, a pH of 3.1, and a total acidity of 1.92%. These values indicate that Rhus aromatica is a nutrient-dense fruit, rich in essential macronutrients and fiber. One of the most significant aspects of the study was the analysis of the fruit's polyphenol and flavonoid content, as well as its antioxidant capacity. The researchers found that the polyphenol content was highest in 60% ethanol extracts, measuring 88.6 ± 50.89 mg EAG/g. Flavonoid content was highest in 100% acetone extracts, with a value of 26.52 ± 0.65 mg EQ/g. The total carotenoid content was 46.37 mg/100 g. Antioxidant activity was notably high, with 87.17% inhibition of the DPPH radical and 90% inhibition of ABTS, particularly in extracts using 80% acetone. These findings are significant when compared to other fruits commonly consumed in the human diet. The lipid, protein, carotenoid, and polyphenol contents, along with the antioxidant capacity, suggest that Rhus aromatica is comparable to other nutritious fruits. This positions Rhus aromatica as a valuable addition to the diet, potentially offering similar health benefits. The broader implications of this study align with earlier findings on the importance of diversifying our food sources to include neglected and underutilized plant species (NUS)[2]. The reliance on a narrow range of staple crops has led to a lack of dietary diversity and limited nutritional value in many diets. By integrating nutrient-rich species like Rhus aromatica into our food systems, we can enhance dietary diversity and improve nutrition. Furthermore, the study supports the idea that wild edible plants (WEPs) can play a crucial role in food security and nutrition, particularly in developing regions[3]. In Ethiopia, for example, WEPs have been used to support food and nutritional needs during times of crisis. The high nutritional content and medicinal properties of these plants make them valuable resources that should be more widely recognized and utilized. The findings of this study also resonate with existing dietary guidelines that emphasize the consumption of fruits and vegetables for their health benefits[4]. Fruits and vegetables are recommended for their fiber content, vitamins, minerals, and phytochemicals, which contribute to disease prevention and overall health. Rhus aromatica, with its high antioxidant activity and nutrient density, fits well within these guidelines and could be promoted as a healthy food option. In conclusion, the study conducted by Tecnológico Nacional de México on Rhus aromatica fruit highlights its potential as a nutritious and antioxidant-rich food source. By incorporating such nutrient-dense and underutilized species into our diets, we can address issues of malnutrition and enhance food security. This research underscores the importance of exploring and integrating diverse plant species into our food systems for better health outcomes.

FruitsNutritionBiochem

References

Main Study

1) Physicochemical, nutritional properties, and antioxidant potential of 'limilla' fruit (Rhus aromatica var. schmidelioides (Schltdl.) Engl.).

Published 15th August, 2024

https://doi.org/10.1016/j.heliyon.2024.e34990

Related Studies

2) The potential of neglected and underutilized species for improving diets and nutrition.

https://doi.org/10.1007/s00425-019-03169-4

3) Wild Edible Plant Nutritional Contribution and Consumer Perception in Ethiopia.

https://doi.org/10.1155/2020/2958623

4) Health benefits of fruits and vegetables.

https://doi.org/10.3945/an.112.002154


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