A Review on Citrullus lanatus

Abstract

Citrullus lanatus is an herbaceous climbing plant and belongs to Cucurbitaceae family. It is commonly known as watermelon. It is grown in a variety of temperatures around the world. Economically it is growing very well in the word. The fruit is high in the antioxidants, lycopene and carotenoids. It helps to neutralise free radicals in our body. Watermelon seeds are high in vitamins B, protein, minerals and phytochemicals, among other things. Watermelon seeds are recognised to provide economic benefits, particularly in places where farming is increasing. Citrullus lanatus seed contains phytochemical elements such as alkaloids, flavanoids, tannins, and amino acids, vitamin C, lycopene, β-carotene, terpenoids, cardioglycosides steroid hormones, carotenoids, lipids, oils and five kind of amino acid. Watermelon seed meal can be used as a non-traditional protein source as well as functional components in food formulations since watermelon seeds contain high-quality proteins. It shows various pharmacological activities like anti-inflammatory activity, anti-oxidant activity, anti-microbial activity, hepatoprotective activity and anti-ulcer activities etc. Watermelon seeds may be an effective tool for treating a variety of disorders with no clear negative side effects, especially in regions where more traditional medicinal approaches are not readily available. Watermelon seed oil and culinary products containing watermelon seed are already available and utilised in many countries.