An insight into the molecules and materials of the haustorium of the Asian Palmyra Palm (Borassus flabellifer) and their nutraceutical values

Abstract

The B. flabellifer L. has untapped potential in sustainable development and its products have many high food and medicinal values. Palmyraculture is defined as the plantation and utilization of Palmyra palm for self-reliance and sustainable development. The endosperm/embryo of germinated seeds is an important biomaterial, also known as haustorium. This paper provides comprehensive insights into the molecules of the haustorium, especially those of pharmaceutical and nutritional interests, and briefly explores other applications of haustoria. The discussions of seed germination, and consequently, the haustorium development have made their way in 21st-century research. With further advancements in chemical analytic techniques and the growing realization of diverse uses of nearly every part of the plant, more attention has been attracted to the phytochemical composition of the parts, including the haustorium. The recent research on the haustorium examines haustoria molecules, their respective functions and uses, and their interactions with external factors. During the period when the haustorium converts complex nutrients in the endosperm into simple forms for the growing embryo, it is composed of varying essential sugars, amino acids, phytochemicals, bioactive compounds, macro, and micronutrients, all of which are highly beneficial for human health. It also possesses glycosides, flavonoids, phenols, and saponins, which contribute to its medicinal properties of acting against hypertension, hypercholesterolemia, hyperglycemia, obesity, as anti-allergic, anticancer, and anti-neoplastic agents, and for fighting against oxidative stress. The most recent study on the haustorium highlights how its extracts serve as an efficient antioxidant and anti-inflammatory functional food. Future studies of the Palmyra palm haustorium could offer potential applications; emphasizing the pharmaceutical, nutritional, and ethnobotanical significance.