Vegetos
(An International Journal of Plant Research & Biotechnology)
Comparative assessment of phenotypic diversity, total phenolic content, flavonoid content and antioxidants activity of buckwheat seeds (F. esculentum Moench and F. tataricum Gaerrtn)
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Research Articles | Published: 30 June, 2025
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Keywords: Antioxidant, Buckwheat, Phenolic, Flavonoid, n Fagopyrum esculentumn , n F. tataricumn
Abstract
Buckwheat, known for its high nutritional value and bioactive compounds serves as a vital source of antioxidants and polyphenols that contribute to various health benefits such as reducing inflammation, improving cardiovascular health, and supporting metabolic functions. Although the accumulation of these bioactive constituents varies between species, significant intra-species variation also exists, highlighting the need to identify accessions or cultivars with optimal phytochemical profiles. In this study, a comparative evaluation of seed phenotypic diversity, total phenolic content (TPC), total flavonoid content (TFC), and antioxidant activity was conducted in two buckwheat species: Fagopyrum esculentum Moench and Fagopyrum tataricum Gaertn. Morphological analysis of grains revealed that F. esculentum seeds were characterized by a winged and triangular shape, shiny texture, smooth seed coat and edges, and the presence of striations. In contrast, F. tataricum seeds exhibited a conical, non-winged shape, dull texture, rough seed coat and edges, and lacked striations. Our results indicated significantly higher levels of TPC (92 mg GAE g⁻¹; IC-108904), TFC (12 mg RE g⁻¹; IC-329194), and antioxidant activity in F. tataricum compared to F. esculentum. Notably, accessions such as IC-329194, IC-108904, IC-13640, and IC-108519 of F. tataricum, and EC-125937 and EC-79238 of F. esculentum, demonstrated substantial industrial, nutritional, and pharmaceutical potential, and are recommended for large-scale cultivation.
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Author Information
Botany Department, North Eastern Hill University, Shillong, India