Nutraceutical Properties of Prosopis cineraria (L.) Druce Pods: A Component of “Panchkuta”

Abstract

Prosopis cineraria (L.) Druce is a tree endemic to hot deserts of India, belonging to the family Leguminosae. Pods locally called “Sangri” are considered as dry fruit of desert and are one of the main ingredients of quintessential Rajasthani dish - The Panchkuta. In the present work, we have attempted to study different characteristics of the pods, to understand its health benefits. Sangri pods were studied for various phytochemicals like alkaloids, saponins, tannins, flavanoids, flavanols and total phenolics. As this plant is found in water stress (or deficient area) so antioxidant potential of pods has also been investigated. Acetone and methanol extracts of Sangri pods are the most potent bioactive extracts. Nutritional analysis shows it as a good source of proteins and minerals like calcium, sodium and potassium. This study demonstrates that P. cineraria pods may be employed as nutraceutical food with rich nutrition, disease prevention and health promoting effects..