Phytochemical Affinities of Triterpenoids of Some Edible Seeds and Identification of Phytosterols as a Nutritional Attribute.

Anasane Pradnya; Chaturvedi Alka; Kalsait Ravi

Volume : IV, Issue : X, October - 2015

Phytochemical Affinities of Triterpenoids of Some Edible Seeds and Identification of Phytosterols as a Nutritional Attribute.

Anasane Pradnya, Chaturvedi Alka, Kalsait Ravi

Abstract :

The seed extracts of Punica granatum L. (Pomegranate), Citrullus lanatus var. lanatus (Watermelon), Linum usitatissimum L. (Flax), Glycine max (L.) Merr. (Soybean), Helianthus annuus L. (Sunflower), Trigonella foenum–graecum L. (Fenugreek), Sesamum indicum L. (Sesame), Cuminum cyminum L. (Cumin), Trichosanthes dioica Roxb. (Parwal), Citrullus fistulosus Stocks (Dhemse), and Cucurbita maxima Duchesne (Pumpkin) were evaluated for identification and separation of different triterpenoid compounds especially phytosterols using Thin Layer chromatography and Paired Affinity Index methods. The Solkowaski test was performed to identify the triterpenoid while Paired Affinity Index was used to calculate and correlate the chemical affinities between all the selected texa. Phytosterols (a class of triterpenoid) play an important role in cell memane function of plant and biosynthesized via mevalonate pathway. Phytosterols profusely found in seeds and fruits while meager quantity observed in other part of plant. In study of TLC Benzene: ethyl acetate (5:1) solvent system showed violet blue colored bands (Rf 0.59 to 0.60) similar to reference standard β–sitosterol. It is a simple, precise method for identification and estimation of phytosterols in seeds. As phytosterols have other advantageous health benefit mainly reducing blood cholesterol in animal and human as well. Edible seeds containing plant sterols adds a new dimension in nutritive value apart from nutrients like carbohydrates, proteins, oils, minerals like calcium, potassium, etc., and can be a important diet supplements as nutrients of food.