IJA_2024v14n2

International Journal of Aquaculture, 2024, Vol.14, No.2, 91-100 http://www.aquapublisher.com/index.php/ija 99 lotus rhizomes, thereby enhancing their commercial value and accessibility (Ullah et al., 2018; Yamini et al., 2019a). By addressing these challenges and leveraging technological advancements, future research can unlock the full potential of lotus rhizomes, contributing to improved health outcomes and sustainable development. 9 Concluding Remarks The comprehensive review of the phytochemical properties and nutritional benefits of the lotus rhizome (Nelumbo nucifera) reveals its significant potential as both a medicinal and nutritional resource. Various studies have highlighted the presence of numerous bioactive compounds, including alkaloids, polyphenols, terpenoids, steroids, and glycosides, which contribute to its diverse biological activities such as antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, immune-modulatory, antiviral, hepatoprotective, cardioprotective, and hypoglycemic effects. The rhizome, in particular, has been shown to contain high levels of phenolic compounds, which are responsible for its strong antioxidant potential. Additionally, the nutritional analysis indicates that the rhizome is a good source of carbohydrates, proteins, and essential nutrients, making it a valuable component in food production and traditional medicine. The phytochemical and nutritional research on Nelumbo nucifera is crucial for several reasons. Firstly, it provides a scientific basis for the traditional use of lotus rhizome in various cultures, validating its medicinal properties and potential health benefits. Secondly, understanding the specific bioactive compounds and their mechanisms of action can lead to the development of new therapeutic agents, particularly in the prevention and treatment of chronic diseases such as cancer and diabetes. Furthermore, the identification and quantification of these compounds can enhance the commercial value of lotus byproducts, promoting their use in the food, pharmaceutical, and nutraceutical industries. Future research should focus on several key areas to fully exploit the potential of Nelumbo nucifera rhizome. Firstly, more in-depth studies are needed to elucidate the molecular mechanisms underlying the bioactive compounds' effects, particularly in relation to chronic diseases such as cancer and diabetes. Secondly, there is a need for comprehensive clinical trials to confirm the efficacy and safety of lotus rhizome extracts and their isolated compounds in human populations. Additionally, exploring sustainable cultivation and processing methods can help maximize the yield and quality of bioactive compounds, making lotus rhizome a more viable commercial crop. Finally, interdisciplinary research combining phytochemistry, nutrition, and pharmacology will be essential to develop innovative applications and products derived fromNelumbo nucifera. Acknowledgments We extend our sincere thanks to two anonymous peer reviewers for their invaluable feedback on the manuscript of this paper. Conflict of Interest Disclosure The authors affirm that this research was conducted without any commercial or financial relationships that could be construed as a potential conflict of interest. Reference Bishayee A., Patel P., Sharma P., Thoutireddy S., and Das N., 2022, Lotus (Nelumbo nucifera Gaertn.) and its bioactive phytocompounds: a tribute to cancer prevention and intervention, Cancers, 14(3): 529. https://doi.org/10.3390/cancers14030529 Chen G., Zhu M., and Guo M., 2019, Research advances in traditional and modern use of Nelumbo nucifera: phytochemicals, health promoting activities and beyond, Critical Reviews in Food Science and Nutrition, 59(sup1): S189-S209. https://doi.org/10.1080/10408398.2018.1553846 Fatima T., Iftikhar F., and Hussain S., 2018, Ethno-medicinal and pharmacological activities of lotus rhizome, Journal of Pharmaceutical Innovation, 7(4): 238-241. He Y., Tao Y., Qiu L., Xu W., Huang X., Wei H., and Tao X., 2022, Lotus (Nelumbo nucifera Gaertn.) leaf-fermentation supernatant inhibits adipogenesis in 3T3-L1 preadipocytes and suppresses obesity in high-fat diet-induced obese rats, Nutrients, 14(20): 4348. https://doi.org/10.3390/nu14204348 Mehta N., Dalwadi P., and Patani P., 2020, Pharmacognostic evaluation and phytochemical screening of Nelumbo nucifera (lotus) flower extract, International Research Journal of Pharmacy, 11(6): 11-14. https://doi.org/10.7897/2230-8407.110658

RkJQdWJsaXNoZXIy MjQ4ODYzNA==