Morphological characterization and determination of the total alkaloid and saponin content of 15 accessions of bittergourd (Momordica charantia L.)
Issue Date
12-2009
Abstract
A total of 53 morpho-horticultural characteristics of bittergourd (Momordica charantia L.), 36 of which were qualitative and 17 quantitative, were evaluated. The parameters were categorized into seedling, vegetative, inflorescence, fruit and seed characteristics for the identification of the distinct traits of each accession and to determine the presence and absence of variants for a range of characteristics. The alkaloid content of the 15 accessions ranged 73.74 - 111.76 mg g¯¹ for Bonito and Mayon varieties, respectively. There were no significant differences among the computed alkaloid values. Significant differences were found in the saponin content which ranged 4.33 - 10.29 mg g¯¹. Native accessions had higher saponin content than the commercial hybrids and improved open-pollinated varieties. Makiling, the most studied and commonly used variety for pharmaceutical extraction purpose, had relatively low values for both alkaloid and saponin contents. Leaf size was negatively correlated with alkoloid content. Significant negative correlations were obtained between saponin content and fruit shape, fruit luster, and fruit weight. Flesh color and intensity however, were positively correlated with saponin content. All other characteristics showed no significant correlations with saponin and alkaloid content.
Source or Periodical Title
Philippine Journal of Crop Science
ISSN
0115-463x
Volume
34
Issue
3
Page
21-32
Document Type
Article
Frequency
tri-quarterly
Physical Description
tables, pictures
Language
English
Recommended Citation
Macusi, Erna S. and Rosario, Teresita L., "Morphological characterization and determination of the total alkaloid and saponin content of 15 accessions of bittergourd (Momordica charantia L.)" (2009). Journal Article. 4600.
https://www.ukdr.uplb.edu.ph/journal-articles/4600