International Journal of Aquaculture, 2024, Vol.14, No.2, 91-100 http://www.aquapublisher.com/index.php/ija 97 5.3 Quantification and identification Quantification and identification of phytochemicals in Nelumbo nucifera are crucial for evaluating its nutritional and medicinal properties. The total phenolic content, flavonoid content, and antioxidant activities are commonly measured using various assays. For example, the total phenolic content in lotus seed embryos was found to be 10.77±0.66 mg GAE/gf.w., while the total flavonoid content was 1.61±0.03 mg QE/gf.w. (Zhu et al., 2022). The antioxidant potential is assessed using assays such as DPPH scavenging activity, ABTS scavenging activity, and ferric ion reducing antioxidant power (FRAP) (Zhu et al., 2022). These quantifications reveal that different parts of the lotus, such as the rhizome and seed embryos, are rich sources of bioactive compounds with significant antioxidant properties. In summary, the extraction, analytical techniques, and quantification methods employed in the study of Nelumbo nucifera provide a detailed understanding of its phytochemical composition. These methods highlight the plant's potential as a source of nutritionally and pharmacologically valuable compounds (Chen et al., 2019; Bishayee et al., 2022). 6 Traditional and Modern Uses of Lotus Rhizome 6.1 Traditional medicinal uses The lotus rhizome has been utilized in traditional medicine for over 2000 years, particularly in Asian countries. It has been employed to treat a variety of ailments, including chronic dyspepsia, hematuria, insomnia, nervous disorders, cardiovascular diseases, and hyperlipidemia. The rhizome is rich in bioactive compounds such as alkaloids, polyphenols, terpenoids, steroids, and glycosides, which contribute to its medicinal properties (Chen et al., 2019; Bishayee et al., 2022). These compounds exhibit a range of pharmacological activities, including antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, immune-modulatory, antiviral, hepatoprotective, cardioprotective, and hypoglycemic effects (Yamini et al., 2019a). 6.2 Culinary applications In addition to its medicinal uses, the lotus rhizome is also valued as a culinary ingredient. It is commonly consumed in various forms, such as fresh, dried, or pickled, and is used in a variety of dishes across Asian cuisines (Chen et al., 2019; Zhu et al., 2022). The rhizome is known for its crunchy texture and slightly sweet flavor, making it a popular addition to soups, stir-fries, and salads. Its nutritional profile, which includes carbohydrates, proteins, and essential vitamins and minerals, further enhances its appeal as a functional food (Yamini et al., 2019a; Zhu et al., 2022). The presence of phenolic compounds and flavonoids in the rhizome also contributes to its antioxidant properties, making it a health-promoting ingredient in the diet. 6.3 Modern therapeutic uses Recent research has expanded the understanding of the therapeutic potential of lotus rhizome in modern medicine. Studies have demonstrated its efficacy in cancer prevention and intervention, highlighting its ability to combat various types of cancer through mechanisms such as apoptosis induction, cell cycle arrest, and inhibition of metastasis (Bishayee et al., 2022). Additionally, the rhizome has shown promise in managing diabetes, with in vitro studies indicating its potential to inhibit α-glucosidase activity and reduce blood glucose levels (Pokhrel et al., 2022). The antioxidant properties of the rhizome, attributed to its high phenolic and flavonoid content, further support its use in preventing oxidative stress-related diseases (Zhu et al., 2022). Moreover, the rhizome's anti-inflammatory and hepatoprotective effects make it a valuable candidate for developing new therapeutic agents (Chen et al., 2019). In summary, the lotus rhizome holds significant value in both traditional and modern contexts. Its diverse applications in medicine and cuisine, supported by a rich phytochemical profile, underscore its importance as a multifunctional plant with substantial health benefits. 7 Safety and Toxicological Aspects 7.1 Toxicity studies The safety and toxicity of Nelumbo nucifera, commonly known as lotus, have been evaluated in various studies. Research indicates that different parts of the lotus plant, including the rhizome, contain numerous bioactive
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