A comprehensive review on nutritional contents and functional properties of Gnetum gnemon Linn.

Abstract

This review article is focused on the nutritional constituents and functional properties of Gnetum gnemon Linn. Among the various plant parts, fruit or seed have been utilized and intensively investigated for food products in India and Indonesia. While the leaves may not be as popular as seeds, they protein sources with complete amino acids and high branched-chain amino acids (BCAAs). In addition, the plant has high contents of vitamin A, dietary fiber, minerals (potassium, calcium, iron, zinc, phosphorus) and high chlorophylls, which are related to chlorophyllin synthesis, antioxidant activity, anti-diabetes activity, and health benefits against various diseases. Therefore, G. gnemon is considered a candidate plant with high nutritional potential providing a wide range of essential nutrients and health benefits, and can be used safely as raw material for food, nutraceuticals, and medicinal products.

Keywords:
Gnetum gnemon Linn.; nutritional value; functional properties