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Unleashing The Potential of Minor Fruit Crops: A Review

The increasing global demand for food security and sustainable agricultural practices has led to a renewed interest in minor fruit crops, which are often underutilized yet offer substantial benefits in terms of biodiversity, nutrition, and economic viability. Minor fruit crops are defined as those that are less commonly cultivated and consumed compared to major fruit crops. They encompass a diverse range of species that provide unique flavors and nutritional advantages, contributing signific

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0% found this document useful (0 votes)
71 views8 pages

Unleashing The Potential of Minor Fruit Crops: A Review

The increasing global demand for food security and sustainable agricultural practices has led to a renewed interest in minor fruit crops, which are often underutilized yet offer substantial benefits in terms of biodiversity, nutrition, and economic viability. Minor fruit crops are defined as those that are less commonly cultivated and consumed compared to major fruit crops. They encompass a diverse range of species that provide unique flavors and nutritional advantages, contributing signific

Uploaded by

Ambrish S
Copyright
© © All Rights Reserved
We take content rights seriously. If you suspect this is your content, claim it here.
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Download as PDF, TXT or read online on Scribd
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International Journal of Advanced Biochemistry Research 2024; 8(10 ): 1473 -1480

ISSN Print: 2617-4693


ISSN Online: 2617-4707
IJABR 2024; 8(10): 1473-1480
Unleashing the potential of minor fruit crops: A
www.biochemjournal.com
Received: 04-08-2024
review
Accepted: 10-09-2024

Ambrish S Ambrish S, Anusha NM and Kiran KN


Ph.D. Scholar, College of
Horticulture, Bengaluru, DOI: https://doi.org/10.33545/26174693.2024.v8.i10s.2896
Karnataka, India
Abstract
Anusha NM
The increasing global demand for food security and sustainable agricultural practices has led to a
Scientist (Fruit Science),
renewed interest in minor fruit crops, which are often underutilized yet offer substantial benefits in
ICAR-Indian Institute of Soil
and Water Conservation, terms of biodiversity, nutrition, and economic viability. Minor fruit crops are defined as those that are
Research Centre, Bellari, less commonly cultivated and consumed compared to major fruit crops. They encompass a diverse
Karnataka, India range of species that provide unique flavors and nutritional advantages, contributing significantly to
local diets. While minor fruits are consumable by humans, they tend to be less palatable than more
Kiran KN popular fruits, resulting in lower market demand and limited cultivation. Examples of minor edible
Ph.D. Scholar, Department of fruits grown in the Indian subcontinent include Amla, Bael, Jamun, Pomegranate, Jackfruit,
Fruit Science, Indian Institute Carambola, Phalsa, Karonda, Passion fruit, Rambutan, Wood apple, Durian, Malayan apple, Fig,
of Horticultural Research, Annona, Buchanania (Charoli), and Garcinia gummi-gutta. These minor fruits are rich in essential
Bengaluru, Karnataka, India nutrients, vitamins, minerals, and bioactive compounds that possess antioxidant properties, helping
combat various free radicals. Regular consumption of these fruits is believed to aid in the prevention of
several diseases and disorders, including obesity, diabetes, and chronic illnesses. Furthermore, they
have significant potential in addressing deficiency disorders and enhancing immunity against diseases.
Recognizing and enhancing the role of these crops in agricultural practices can lead to greater food
diversity, improved nutrition, and increased economic opportunities, benefiting both local communities
and the broader ecosystem. This review focuses on minor fruits and their nutraceutical values,
particularly in improving the human immune system.

Keywords: Carambola, Garcinia gummi-gutta, Buchanania

Introduction
Defining minor fruit crops precisely can be challenging. Broadly speaking, they refer to
fruits that are edible but are considered less palatable compared to other varieties. These
fruits typically have lower demand in the market, are grown on a limited scale, and are often
cultivated in organized plantations with the application of inputs. They are also referred to by
various terms such as less-known fruits, less-appealing fruits, less-exploited fruits, stray
fruits, or wild fruits. Malnutrition affects one in every three people globally, with an
estimated 159 million children under five suffering from stunted growth. Additionally, two
billion individuals lack one or more essential micronutrients, while nearly the same number
grapple with overweight or obesity. Including a diverse range of foods on our plates helps
balance diets by providing vital nutrients, as highlighted by Biodiversity International - India.
Fruits play a pivotal role in achieving this balance, offering a broad spectrum of essential
nutrients, including phenolic antioxidants that safeguard against various diseases, as
emphasized by numerous health-based statistical reports. Their abundance of essential
nutrients, antioxidants, and fiber makes fruits indispensable for human health, supporting key
aspects such as heart health, digestive health, weight management, and immune function.
Leveraging underutilized minor fruits, which thrive in adverse conditions and various soil
types, presents an opportunity to address this nutritional gap effectively. In contrast to major
fruits, minor fruit varieties have limited local market distribution and are largely unknown
outside their growing regions. However, global trade in minor tropical fruits is growing due
Corresponding Author: to their health benefits. These fruits play a crucial role in food security and income
Ambrish S
generation for rural households, with revenue from them accounting for up to 75% of total
Ph.D. Scholar, College of
Horticulture, Bengaluru, income in some areas. For example, in Cambodia, fruits and vegetables are second only to
Karnataka, India rice in importance and provide significant additional income.
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Thailand and Vietnam also see substantial earnings from foot apple, Mulberry, Karonda, Kokum, Fig, Ramphal and
minor tropical fruit exports, with Thailand earning nearly Annona, Aporosa, Artocarpus/wildJack, Berberis,
USD 1.3 billion from them in 2017, representing 7% of total Buchanania/charoli, Elaeagnus, Garcinia gummi-gutta,
agricultural earnings. Amla, Bael, Jamun, Jack fruit, Bread Syzygium, Opuntia, Lantana, Ixora, Hulagada hannu,
fruit, Carambola, Phalsa, Karonda, Passion fruit, Haale hannu, Chotte hannu etc. are some of the minor
Mangosteen, Rambutan, Wood apple, Durian, Malayan edible fruits cultivated or grown in Indian subcontinent.
apple, Roseapple, Egg fruit, West Indian Cherry, Elephant

Table 1: List of minor fruit crops.


Common Name Botanical name Family Origine
Carambola Averrhoa carambola L. Oxalidaceaea Southeast Asia
Elephant apple Dillenia indica Dilleniaceae China
Durian Durio zibethinus Bombacaceae Southeast Asia
Water apple Syzygium aqueum Myrtaceae Tropical Asia and Queensland
Star gooseberry Phyllanthus acidus Euphorbiaceae Madagascar
Bread Fruit Artocarpus altilis Moraceae Indo-Malay
Phalsa Grewia asiatica Malvaceae Indian subcontinent
Karonda Carissa carandas Apocynaceae Indian subcontinent
West Indian Cherry Malpighia emarginata Malpighiaceae Southeast Asia
Rose apple Syzygium jambos Myrtaceae Southeast Asia
Laxman Phal Anona muricata Anonaceae Caribbean and Central America
Amla Emblica officinalis Phyllanthaceae Indo-China
Bael Aegle marmelos Rutaceae India
Spanish lime Melicoccus bijugatus Sapindaceae Central and South America
Milk Fruit Chrysophyllum cainito Sapotaceae Greater Antilles and the West Indies
Jaboticaba Myrciaria cauliflora Myrtaceae southeastern Brazil
Chempadak Artocarpus integer Moraceae Southeast Asia
Black Sapota Diospyros digyna Ebenaceae Mexico and Central America.
Miracle Fruit Synsepalum dulcificum Sapotaceae West Africa
Pea nut butter fruit Bunchosia argentea Malpighiaceae South America
Passion Fruit Passiflora edulis Passifloraceae South America
Surinam Cherry Eugenia uniflora Myrtaceae South America
White Sapota Casimiroa edulis Rutaceae Mexico and Central America
Sapida Baccaurea ramiflora Euphorbiaceae Southeast Asia
Malayan apple Syzygium malaccense Myrtaceae Indo-China
Jatoba Hymenaea courbaril Fabaceae South america
Jujuba Ziziphus jujuba Rhamnaceae China
Kumquat Fortunella japonica Rutaceae S-E China
Langsta Lansium domesticum Meliaceae South east Asia
Macauba palm Acrocomia aculeata Arecaceae South America
Mangaba Hancornia speciosa Apocynaceae Brazil
Mangrove apple or pagatpat Sonneratia caseolaris Lythraceae. -
Pitomba/Monkey Pot Tree Talisia esculenta Sapindaceae South America
African pear/Safou Dacryodes edulis Burseraceae Central and West Africa
Salak/Snake fruit Salacca zalacca Arecaceae Indonesia
Marang/Tarap Artocarpus odoratissimus Moraceae Borneo
Umbu/Imbu Spondias tuberosa Anacardiaceae Northeastern Brazil
Pear guava/Feijoa Eugenia pyriformis Myrtaceae Brazil
Wampi/langsat Clausena lansium Rutaceae Southeast Asia

Many minor fruit species are highly nutritious and well- vitamin A), along with vitamins C and E present in fruits,
suited to low-input agriculture. These minor fruits can serve exhibit antioxidant and free radical scavenging activities,
as crucial sources to address hidden hunger, such as vitamin playing a significant role in disease prevention. Moreover,
A deficiency, especially in developing countries. vitamin C is involved in cholesterol metabolism, potentially
Minor fruits are widely recognized as essential sources of impacting blood cholesterol levels.
minerals, vitamins, and numerous other beneficial
components crucial for human health. Inadequate fruit Milk Fruit
consumption is often associated with unhealthy diets, which C. caimito, a tropical fruit tree, offers numerous benefits in
have been linked to various chronic diseases, particularly alleviating disease symptoms, notably diabetes. Its leaf
prevalent in developing nations. Increased fruit intake can extract demonstrates anti-inflammatory properties, reducing
mitigate the occurrence of chronic diseases, including hypersensitivity and inflammatory markers, while also
cancer, cardiovascular ailments, and other age-related exhibiting antinociceptive effects. Additionally, the leaf
pathologies. The advantageous compounds found in fruits extract accelerates wound healing and aids in regulating fat
and vegetables offer protection against free radicals that uptake (Luo et al., 2002) [17].
harm lipids, proteins, and nucleic acids. Carotenoids (pro-
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Miracle Fruit significant source of natural antimicrobial compounds


Miracle berries present a valuable solution for diabetics (Quílez et al., 2018) [21]
grappling with sugar cravings. Their extraordinary ability to
diminish insulin resistance in diabetic patients marks them Mountain Sweet Thorn (Flacourtia montana J. Graham)
as an exceptional fruit that can forestall abrupt surges in An essential herb in Ayurveda, utilized for medicinal
blood sugar levels, particularly following meals. purposes including the treatment of fever, diarrhea, and
Additionally, miracle fruits boast a wealth of Vitamin C, a inflammations through infusions of its bark, leaves, and
vital nutrient essential in combating both viral and bacterial root. The leaves exhibit carminative and astringent
infections (Akinmoladun et al., 2020) [2]. properties, serving as a tonic, expectorant, and remedy for
asthma, pain relief, gynecological issues, and anthelmintic
Champedak purposes. Additionally, it is employed in the treatment of
Cempedak is abundant in vitamin A, which supports optimal hydrocele, pneumonia, and intestinal worms.
eye health and sustains the health of the cornea. Its
antibacterial, antiviral, and antifungal properties contribute Egg Fruit (Pouteria campechiana)
to combating urinary tract infections. Additionally, the Egg fruits are packed with beta-carotene, boosting the
presence of antioxidants, dietary fiber, and vitamin C in immune system and protecting vision. They're a nutritional
cempedak aids in maintaining cardiovascular health. Its high powerhouse for expectant mothers, offering fiber, vitamin
potassium content assists in reducing blood pressure, C, and iron crucial for digestion, immunity, and fetal
lowering cholesterol levels, and alleviating hypertension, development. Plus, they're low in fat and calories, making
thereby promoting overall cardiac well-being (Rosa et al., them a guilt-free treat for moms-to-be (Fitriansyah et al.,
2022) [23] 2021) [11].

Lemon Drop Mangosteen Sapida (Burmese grape)


This fruit is often described as having a taste reminiscent of The Burmese grape (Baccaurea ramiflora), native to
lemon-flavored cotton candy. It boasts a wealth of Southeast Asia, is widely used in traditional medicine for
antioxidants, minerals, and vitamins, all of which can treating ailments like jaundice, constipation, indigestion,
contribute to boosting the immune system. Moreover, its cellulitis, and snake venom. Its various parts—leaves, fruit,
elevated levels of Vitamins B and C support overall bodily bark, and seeds are being scientifically studied for numerous
health. Notably, the fruit also possesses medicinal medicinal properties (Rohilla., 2023) [22]. These include
properties, notably its richness in benzophenones, which analgesic, antioxidant, anti-diarrheal, anti-inflammatory,
have been shown to target colon cancer cells. cytotoxic, hypoglycemic, hypolipidemic, insecticidal,
neuropharmacological, antifungal, and antimicrobial
Annona muricata (Soursop) activities, making it a promising plant for modern
The seeds are extracted and utilized in combating worms, pharmacological applications (Goyal et al., 2022) [14].
while the fruits have traditionally been employed in treating
arthritis and fever. Both the seeds and fruits are also applied White sapota
in the treatment of parasitic infections. Furthermore, the Casimiroa edulis, known for its sedative effects as a sleep
leaves serve as a traditional remedy for addressing inducer, is cultivated in Egypt for its edible fruit. Extensive
collapses, hypoglycemia, inflammation, and providing relief studies on its bark, seeds, and roots have identified
against spasms (Al Kazman et al., 2022) [3]. Interestingly, compounds like casimiroedine, dimethylhistamine, Nα, Nα-
the plant's leaves have earned the nickname 'the cancer dimethylhistamine, zapoterin, imidazole, and quinolones.
killer' and are utilized in traditional medicine for cancer The plant’s aqueous leaf extract shows anti-inflammatory
treatment (Gajalakshmi et al., 2012) [12]. and diuretic effects, while its alcoholic extract has
anticonvulsant, antimutagenic, and sedative properties. Key
Amla compounds isolated from the leaves include isoimpinellin,
Vit C rich amla can give a boost to immunity. It helps in casimiroin, skimmianine, edulein, and scopoletin methyl
improving health of both air and skin. Amla contains ether. (Awaad et al., 2006) [4]
chromium which is great for stabilising your blood sugar
levels. in Ayurveda as a potent rasayana and in traditional Pea nut butter fruit (Bunchosia armeniaca)
medicine for the treatment of diarrhea, jaundice, and The peanut butter fruits are a rich source of lycopene
inflammation (Prananda et al., 2023) [20] presenting 10 times more than the tomato fruit (3.5 mg/100
Jamun g). This biodiversity fruit has a great potential of use, once it
The seeds are known for their effectiveness in managing has a good tasty to eat fresh and can also be used as an
diabetes. Jamun has a long history in traditional medicine ingredient in preparations to increase the lycopene levels in
for treating various ailments such as diarrhea, dysentery, and food (Borguini et al., 2013) [9]. Known for its unique flavor
stomach ulcers. Furthermore, the polyphenols present in resembling strawberry jam and peanut butter, holds
jamun exhibit neuroprotective properties, which may significant nutritional potential. Rich in bioactive
contribute to promoting brain health. compounds, its ripe and unripe fruits demonstrate a range of
beneficial properties, including antioxidant, antimicrobial,
Wild sweetsop (Annona mucosa) antifungal, and anti-inflammatory effects. The fruit's high
The leaves are utilized in folk medicine as a treatment phenolic content enhances its antioxidant capacity,
against rheumatism. Plants are the greatest source of protecting against oxidative stress by acting as hydrogen
substances with pharmaceutical potential on the planet and a donors and metal chelators. These compounds are crucial
for preventing cellular damage, reducing inflammation, and
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promoting overall health. Peanut butter fruit, with its potent culinary and medicinal uses. The fruit is valued for its tonic
antioxidant properties, offers a promising natural source of and laxative properties, making it beneficial for digestive
health-boosting nutrients. health. Its juice, when sweetened, serves as a refreshing
drink, particularly during fevers, and can also help soothe
Black sapote (Diospyros texana) coughs (Saikia et al., 2023) [25]. The green fruits are noted
The black sapote is a fruit tree known for its rich nutritional for their effectiveness against rheumatism, showcasing the
content and health benefits. The fruit, which is bitter and plant's role in traditional medicine (Kumar and Prasher,
astringent when unripe, becomes a sweet, dark chocolate- 2021) [15].
brown delicacy when fully ripe, though its appearance may
be unappealing. It is best enjoyed mashed with citrus juice Rose apple (Syzygium jambos)
or used in smoothies and jams. Additionally, the immature Rose apple is a versatile fruit rich in vitamin C, commonly
fruit can be boiled and consumed as a vegetable. used in desserts and savory dishes. Its culinary applications
Nutritionally, black sapote is packed with vitamins A and C, include jams, jellies, and syrups, enhancing various recipes.
fiber, and minerals, while its bark and leaves have medicinal Medicinally, rose apple supports digestive health, alleviates
uses against fever and skin diseases. By exploring its menstrual discomfort, and acts as a tonic for the brain and
bioactive compounds, black sapote offers potential for liver. Packed with antioxidants, it helps reduce the risk of
enhancing health and addressing dietary deficiencies. heart disease and regulates blood glucose levels. Its seeds
and peel are used to treat diarrhea, dysentery, and ulcers
Jaboticaba (Myrciaria cauliflora) (Baliga et al., 2017) [6].
Jaboticaba is a nutritional powerhouse, rich in essential
minerals like calcium, iron, potassium (up to 34.6 mg), and Phalsa fruit (Grewia subinaequalis)
phosphorus (13.2 mg) per 100 g. It also contains important Phalsa is a nutritious fruit known for its sub-acidic taste and
amino acids, vitamins B1, B2, and vitamin C (up to 238 rich content of vitamins A and C, phosphorous, and iron.
mg), making it a strong antioxidant. Additionally, it is high Recognized for its medicinal properties since Vedic times, it
in anthocyanins (58.1–315 mg) and polyphenols (440 mg), exhibits astringent qualities and a cooling effect,
offering various health benefits (Marsiglia et al., 2021). In traditionally used to address inflammation, heart disorders,
Brazil, jaboticaba has a long history in folk medicine, with fever, and constipation. Rich in bioactive compounds like
its sun-dried peel used in a decoction to treat diarrhea and anthocyanins, flavonoids, and tannins, phalsa offers
respiratory issues such as hemoptysis, asthma, and chronic antioxidant, antidiabetic, antibacterial, anticancer, and anti-
tonsillitis. This dual role as a nutritious fruit and traditional hyperlipidemic benefits. Despite its health potential, its
remedy highlights its significant health potential (Santos et short shelf life and small size limit utilization. Currently
al., 2010) [26] processed into products like squash, jam, and juice, further
research is needed to enhance its nutritional composition
Spanish lime (Melicoccus bijugatus) and overall quality for pharmaceutical applications (Paliwal
Spanish lime also known as mamoncillo, is a nutrient-rich and Mukhija. 2019) [19]
fruit with a sweet-tart flavor. Its juicy, gelatinous pulp is not
only delicious but also offers numerous health benefits. Rich Karonda (Carissa carandas)
in caffeic acid, the pulp may help alleviate respiratory issues It was found that chemical composition of the fresh and
by inhibiting leukotriene biosynthesis, which supports dried Karonda fruit showed that dried products substantially
inflammation management in conditions like asthma. higher nutrient content than fresh one with the exception of
Additionally, the presence of antimicrobial compounds such vitamin C which was almost half of that present in fresh
as p-coumaroyl hexose makes it effective against one. The plant fruit is rich in nutrients, vitamins and
gastrointestinal disturbances like diarrhea (Wilson et al., minerals such as protein, carbohydrate, calcium, iron,
2020) [28]. By incorporating Spanish lime into our diets, we carotene, vitamin B1, B2, C etc. Sweeter varieties can be
can unleash its nutritional potential while enjoying its eaten raw, while more acidic ones are often stewed with
unique taste and health-promoting properties (López et al., sugar. The plant's roots offer cardiotonic and
2021) [16] antihypertensive effects, and its high pectin content makes it
ideal for jelly and jam production. Traditionally, karonda is
Bael fruit (Aegle marmelos) used to treat sore throats, mouth ulcers, and skin disorders
Bael fruit is indeed celebrated for its medicinal properties. (Jayakumar and Muthuraman, 2018) [5] its leaves have anti-
Its astringent and digestive qualities make it useful for inflammatory properties, and fruit extracts show antioxidant,
treating gastrointestinal issues like diarrhea and dysentery. anticancer, anti-diabetic, and hepatoprotective activities.
The ripe fruit's tonic and restorative effects, along with its With ongoing research into its health benefits, karonda
benefits for heart and brain health, highlight its nutritional presents opportunities for enhancing dietary diversity and
value. The presence of tannins, especially in the rind, promoting sustainable agricultural practices, making it a
contributes significantly to its medicinal efficacy, including valuable asset in health and nutrition (Saeed et al., 2024) [24].
potential benefits for managing diabetes. Additionally, its
cooling properties during the summer months and its ability Durian
to enhance cognitive functions make it a versatile fruit in Durian, despite its polarizing aroma, holds immense
traditional medicine (Bhardwaj and Nandal, 2015) [7]. nutritional potential, making it a valuable minor fruit. Its
edible aril, which comprises 20-35% of the fruit’s weight, is
Delinia (Dillenia indica) packed with essential vitamins such as A, C, and E, along
Delinia commonly known as elephant apple, has a unique with minerals like potassium, calcium, and iron. Rich in
knobby shape and an acidic flavor that lends itself to various natural folates, durian serves as a significant dietary source
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of antioxidants, polyphenols, and carotenoids, which calcium, phosphorus, anthocyanins, flavonoids, carotenoids,
contribute to its health benefits. Its bioactive compounds, and vitamin C, giving it strong antioxidant properties
including flavonoids and carotenoids, enhance its (Syama et al., 2019) [27]. The vitamin C content of fresh
antioxidant properties, while its carbohydrate content Pitanga fruit is 24.9 mg/100 g of pulp. The main carotenoids
provides a sweet, energy-rich component, making durian a are lycopene, β-cryptoxanthin, and β-carotene, with red
nutritionally potent fruit (Gamay et al., 2024) [13]. The Pitanga fruit having the highest carotenoid content, followed
content of polyphenols and antioxidant activity were more by purple and orange varieties. Purple Pitanga has a higher
in case of overripe fruits, flavonoid was highest in ripe concentration of total phenolics than red due to its greater
durian, and flavanols and antiproliferative activity were antioxidant content (Fidelis et al., 2022) [10]
highest in mature durian (Aizawa and Nagai, 2021) [1]. In conclusion, the potential of minor fruit crops presents a
significant opportunity for diversification in agriculture,
Carambola sustainable development, and enhancement of food security.
Averrhoa carambola is rich in essential nutrients and natural As highlighted throughout this review, these crops not only
antioxidants like L-ascorbic acid, (-) epicatechin, and gallic contribute to nutritional diversity and local economies but
acid. A 100 g serving provides 35.7 kcal, 0.38 g protein, also possess unique characteristics that can enhance
9.38 g carbohydrates, 0.8 g dietary fiber, and various resilience against climate change and promote biodiversity.
vitamins and minerals such as calcium, iron, phosphorus, Their cultivation can lead to improved livelihoods for
potassium, and citric acid. In India, it is used as an anti- smallholder farmers, particularly in regions where major
pyretic, laxative, and for treating conditions like coughs, fruit crops may not thrive. The growing interest in minor
asthma, and mouth ulcers. In Brazil, it serves as a diuretic fruit crops reflects a shift towards recognizing the
for kidney and bladder issues, while in Chinese medicine, it importance of underutilized species, which often require
is used to quench thirst and stimulate saliva secretion fewer inputs and can thrive in marginal environments.
(Zainudin et al., 2014) [29]. In Ayurveda, the fruit is However, realizing the full potential of these crops
considered a digestive tonic that increases lactation and necessitates concerted efforts in research and development,
treats ailments such as throat inflammation, diarrhea, market access, and consumer awareness. By investing in
jaundice, and skin issues. The leaves are applied externally breeding programs, agronomic practices, and post-harvest
for chickenpox, ringworm, and headaches, and their technologies, we can enhance yield, quality, and
decoction is used for mouth sores and angina. The flowers marketability, making these crops more appealing to both
are used for fever and as a vermifuge, while the roots treat producers and consumers. Additionally, the promotion of
arthritis, chronic headaches, and serve as an antidote to value-added products can further increase their economic
poison (Bodnar and Hanus, 2018) [8]. viability. Ultimately, embracing the diversity of minor fruit
crops is not just an agricultural imperative; it is a pathway
Pitanga (Eugenia uniflora L.) towards more resilient and sustainable food systems that
Pitanga, well-known in Brazil, has long been used in folk honor the rich cultural and ecological heritage of our global
medicine. The leaves are used as antipyretics, diuretics, community. As we move forward, a collaborative approach
astringents, and for treating digestive disorders, rheumatism, among researchers, policymakers, and farmers will be
and microbial infections. Recent studies show that Pitanga essential in unlocking the full potential of these invaluable
leaf extract may inhibit hepatic stellate cell production. The crops, ensuring they play a critical role in future food
fruit, composed of 77% pulp and 23% seed, is rich in security and environmental sustainability.

Milk fruit Miracle Fruit Chempedak

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Lemon drop A. muricata Amla

Jamun A. mucosa Mountain sweet thorn

Peanut butter fruit Milk fruit Burmese grape

Black sapota Jaboticaba Spanish lime

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Bael Elephant apple Rose apple

Phalsa Karonda

Durian Carambola

Conclusion 2226.
In conclusion, minor fruit crops offer significant potential 2. Akinmoladun AC, Adetuyi AR, Komolafe K,
for enhancing agricultural diversity, food security, and Oguntibeju OO. Nutritional benefits, phytochemical
sustainable development. These underutilized fruits, rich in constituents, ethnomedicinal uses, and biological
essential nutrients and bioactive compounds, can address properties of miracle fruit plant (Synsepalum dulcificum
global malnutrition, improve health outcomes, and boost Shumach. & Thonn. Daniell). Heliyon. 2020;6(12).
local economies, especially in rural areas. By investing in 3. Al Kazman BS, Harnett JE, Hanrahan JR. Traditional
research, market access, and value-added products, the uses, phytochemistry, and pharmacological activities of
cultivation of minor fruits can thrive, benefiting both Annonaceae. Molecules. 2022;27(11):3462.
producers and consumers. Embracing these crops promotes 4. Awaad AS, El-Sayed NH, Maitland DJ, Mabry TJ.
biodiversity, resilience against climate change, and a more Phenolic antioxidants from Casimiroa edulis leaves.
sustainable food system, ultimately contributing to global Pharm Biol. 2006;44(4):258-262.
food security and environmental sustainability. 5. Jayakumar K, Muthuraman B. Traditional uses and
nutrient status of Indian native plant fruit (Carissa
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