Analysis of Mineral Elements, Proximate and Nutritive value in Citrullus vulgaris Schrad. (Watermelon) seed extracts

Dietary elements, commonly known as dietary minerals are chemical elements required by living organisms other than the elements present in the common organic molecules. Dietary fibre and minerals are important for healthy functioning of the human body. The mineral nutrition is an important aspect and its pivotal role in human life provides healthy growth. The present study was undertaken to analyze the mineral contents and nutritive value of the seeds of Citrullus vulgaris Schrad. The dried and powdered seeds of watermelon were subjected to various sample preparation stages for the proximate analysis such as Fat, Moisture, Ash and Fibre and the dietary minerals such as Iron, Phosphorus and Calcium from seed sample and sample ash were estimated using various biochemical and titration methods under standard laboratory protocols. From the study results, the estimated mineral composition and nutritive value in the seeds of watermelon were found in good amounts which can suggest that the established role of essential dietary elements in the physiology of human life and the impact of watermelon seeds on health and hazards.