A study on morphological, phytochemical and nutritional properties of Vigna unguiculata (L.) Walp.

Abstract

Legumes are an important source of protein, carbohydrates, and fiber and are consumed by a large population for their health benefits. Legumes are versatile crops used for their grains, and animal feed. Legumes are crucial for various ecosystems and enhance soil health by nitrogen fixation. The main objective of the research is to study the morphology, phytochemicals and nutritional properties of Vigna unguiculata. Morphological characteristics like habitat, leaf morphology, flower morphology, pod shape, and seed morphology have been studied. The phytochemical study has revealed the presence of primary metabolites like protein, and carbohydrates and secondary metabolites like alkaloids, phenols, tannins, flavonoids, steroids, glycosides, and saponins. The nutritional properties are studied with the estimation of total protein, carbohydrates, and phenol with Lowry, Anthrone, and Folin-Ciocalteu reagent methods. The aqueous extract of the seeds has shown a higher concentration of protein (11.54±0.85 g/100g), carbohydrate (6.58±1.24 g/100g), and phenol (3.91±1.23 mg/g) in comparison to the ethanolic extract. Thus the present work shows that it is a good source of secondary metabolites and proteins that can be exploited by the nutraceutical industry.