Abstract
Watermelon (Citrullus lanatus) is commonly consumed by humans
and widely available around the world. It has impressive nutritional properties,
a rich phytochemical profile, and various claimed medicinal and health benefits.
The major carotenoids in watermelon include lycopene,
β-carotene, phytofluene, phytoene, lutein, and
neurosporene. Lycopene (approximately 6,888 μg/152 g) is
the major bioactive component in the fruit and it reportedly promotes several
therapeutic effects, such as anti-cancer and anti-inflammatory activities etc.
in humans and animals. Watermelon is also a good source of the amino acid
citrulline, which is involved in production of arginine. Pre- and postharvest
factors, including fruit sampling area, application of fertilizer, climatic
factors, and genetic variability, are known to affect its bioactive compounds
and nutrient concentrations. This review summarizes our current understanding of
the watermelon phytochemical profile and the factors affecting its bioactivities
and therapeutic effects.
Publisher
The Korean Society of Food Preservation
Cited by
9 articles.
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