MINERAL ANALYSIS OF AVERRHOA BILIMBI L. – A POTENTIAL FRUIT

Abstract

Averrhoa bilimbi L. (Oxalidaceae) is widely distributed and cultivated throughout tropical countries for their fruits. Parts such as leaves, bark, fruits are widely used in medicine as a folk remedy for many symptoms. This study provides morphological and biochemical characteristics of half-ripen bilimbi fruits. During present study physical and chemical properties of Bilimbi fruits were studied at half-ripen stage for potential benefits based on its mineral content. Phosphorus content of the fruits was higher at half-ripen stage i.e. 39 ± 1.7%, while in case of minor elements, Molybdenum is present in least amount i.e. 0.04 ± 0.05 ppm.  This Chemical studies reveals; these fruits are good source of minerals such as Potassium, Phosphorus, Nitrogen, Calcium, Magnesium and Iron suggesting its use as a potential fruit.

Keywords: Averrhoa, Bilimbi, Mineral analysis, Oxalidaceae.