Review on the “Biological Applications of Okra Polysaccharides and Prospective Research”
Ali A. A. Al-Shawi, Mustafa F. Hameed, Kawkab Ali Hussein, Haneen K. Thawini
Abstract
Abstract Background Vegetables with edible parts like flowers, fruits, stems, leaves, fibers, roots, and seeds are rich sources of essential vitamins, minerals, and trace elements with various medical functions. Many diseases such as osteoporosis, diabetes, high cholesterol, obesity, heart diseases, and stroke are caused by poor, healthy lifestyle or nutrition. Therefore, generation of new biological functions from vegetables will increase the interests of scientific research and applications. Main body Okra is an edible vegetable which contains vitamins, fiber, carbohydrates, protein, and minerals. The bioactive compounds of okra possess various biological activities such as anti-inflammation, antibacterial, anticancer, and antifungal. Polysaccharides from vegetables or medicinal plants are important large molecules with various biological applications. In this review, we will focus on the biological properties and nanoparticle uses of polysaccharides isolated from okra and the extraction methods of polysaccharides. Conclusion This review will enhance the scientific research findings of okra polysaccharides and recommend future prospective of polysaccharides for biological uses.