Spectral Characterization of Canarium ovatum Engl. (Pili) Pulp Extract from Allen, Northern Samar, Philippines

Abstract

Canarium ovatum (Pili) Pulp was widely cultivated in the town of Allen, Northern Samar, Philippines. In Allen, Northern Samar produces 60 to 100 kilograms per year every tree. The pili can used in various aspects like oil and soap production, fuel, sweet candies and bread stuffing, and used in traditional medicines for its nutritional benefits. Thus, this study focuses on characterizing the Pili extract using Ultraviolet visible (UV-vis) spectrophotometer. Physical properties were determined in terms of boiling point, color, density, odor, pH, and solubility. Likewise, the nutritional content was determined in terms of ash content, carbohydrates, crude fats, crude protein, and moisture content. Lastly, to characterize the Pili pulp, a UV-vis spectrophotometer was used to determine and quantify the nutraceutical content of the plant sample. Results showed that, Pili pulp has a lower boiling point than water, an orange color, with unpleasant odor, density less than water, slightly acidic, and exhibited a polar nature. Subsequently, proximate analysis revealed that ash content has a high mineral concentration and, also, carbohydrates can contribute for energy source. The presence of crude fats indicates essential fatty acids necessary for maintaining cellular structure. On the other hand, crude protein offers health diet as well as low moisture content of plant sample implies a longer shelf-life and reduced microbial growth. Correspondingly, spectra analysis of UV-vis indicates among phytochemical screening tested for positive results and promoting possible applications in developing natural remedies. Therefore, the findings provide evidence as therapeutic advantages for characterization and evaluation which produce health and economic benefits for individuals, businesses, farmers and government agencies.