B.Com (NEP Syllabus) herbal nutrition Unit 4.pdf

🌿 Herbal Nutrition – Study Material
For I Year B.Com Students (Under NEP Syllabus)

Common Paper – Multi-Disciplinary Course

This easy and student-friendly study material is designed for First-Year B.Com students under the National Education Policy (NEP) Syllabus. It serves as a common paper in the Multi-Disciplinary Course, helping students from diverse academic backgrounds understand the fundamentals of herbal nutrition with clarity and confidence.

The material is organized is for the Fourth unit in a simple and lucid manner to help students grasp the key concepts quickly and prepare effectively for university examinations. Real-life examples, clear explanations, and well-structured points make learning both engaging and practical.

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SEMESTER –I Natural Sciences MLD - HERBAL NUTRITION

Unit IV : Nutritive and medicinal value of common vegetables and fruits – Bottle
gourd, white ash gourd, plantain, bamboo shoot, bitter gourd, spinach, moringa
leaves, amaranth. Papaya, Guava, Sapota, Orange, Mango, Banana, Lemon,
Pomegranate.

Introduction:
Fruits and vegetables constitute the cornerstone of a balanced and wholesome
diet. They are nature’s most abundant and easily available sources of essential
nutrients required for the proper functioning, maintenance, and protection of
the human body. Each fruit and vegetable provides a unique combination of
vitamins, minerals, antioxidants, dietary fiber, and phytonutrients, which
collectively play a crucial role in maintaining overall health and preventing
diseases.
From a nutritional standpoint, fruits and vegetables are rich in vitamins such
as A, C, K, and B-complex, which contribute to various physiological processes.
 Vitamin A supports vision, growth, and immune defense.
 Vitamin C acts as a powerful antioxidant, helps in wound healing, and
enhances iron absorption.
 Vitamin K aids in blood clotting and bone metabolism.
 B-complex vitamins assist in energy metabolism and proper nervous
system function.
In addition, these natural foods supply essential minerals such as potassium,
calcium, iron, and magnesium, which help maintain fluid balance, strengthen
bones and teeth, support muscle contraction, and promote red blood cell
formation.
Another vital component found in fruits and vegetables is dietary fiber, which
not only improves digestion and bowel movement but also helps in maintaining
healthy body weight by inducing satiety and reducing cholesterol absorption.

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Fiber also contributes to controlling blood sugar levels, making it particularly
beneficial for individuals with diabetes.
The antioxidants and phytochemicals present in these foods — such as
carotenoids, flavonoids, polyphenols, and anthocyanins — protect body cells
from oxidative damage caused by free radicals. This reduces the risk of chronic
diseases like heart disease, stroke, type 2 diabetes, and certain types of cancer.
Regular consumption of a wide variety of fruits and vegetables helps in:
 Strengthening the immune system by providing vitamins and minerals
essential for defense mechanisms.
 Enhancing digestion and metabolism through high fiber content and
natural enzymes.
 Reducing the risk of chronic diseases by regulating cholesterol, blood
pressure, and glucose levels.
 Promoting skin, bone, and eye health due to the presence of vitamins
A, C, and E, along with antioxidants.
 Delaying aging and cellular degeneration through natural detoxification
and free radical neutralization.
Thus, incorporating different colors and varieties of fruits and vegetables into
the daily diet ensures a balanced intake of nutrients that work synergistically to
promote good health, vitality, and disease prevention.
1. Bottle Gourd (Lagenaria siceraria)
Bottle gourd, also known as lauki or sorakkai, is a light green vegetable valued
for its high water content and low-calorie composition. It contains about 92%
water, making it an excellent hydrating food. Nutritionally, it is rich in vitamins
A, C, and K, and essential minerals such as calcium, magnesium, potassium,
and iron. These nutrients play a crucial role in maintaining blood health, muscle
strength, and skin health.

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Medicinal Values: Bottle gourd acts as a natural diuretic, helping flush out
toxins from the body and keeping the urinary system clean. It helps regulate
blood pressure and blood sugar, supports liver and heart functions, and aids in
weight management because of its low-fat and high-fiber composition.
Features:
 High water and fiber content aids digestion and hydration.
 Regulates blood sugar and pressure.
 Promotes skin and liver health.
 Ideal for weight management.
2. White Ash Gourd (Benincasa hispida)
Commonly known as winter melon or poosanikai, white ash gourd is a low -
calorie vegetable packed with dietary fiber, Vitamin C, and potassium. It also
provides antioxidants that protect the body from oxidative damage.

Medicinal Values: It serves as a cooling agent, reducing body heat and
improving overall immunity. Its high fiber content aids digestion and helps in
weight management. The potassium content supports heart function and blood
pressure regulation. In traditional medicine, ash gourd is also used for
detoxification and mental calmness.
Features:
 Rich in Vitamin C and fiber for digestion.
 Acts as a body coolant.
 Regulates blood pressure and strengthens immunity.
3. Plantain (Green Banana)
Plantains, unlike sweet bananas, are starchy and usually cooked before
consumption. They provide complex carbohydrates, dietary fiber, Vitamin A, C,
B6, potassium, and magnesium. These nutrients supply energy, support nerve
function, and enhance metabolism.

Medicinal Values: Plantains improve digestive health due to their resistant
starch, which acts as a prebiotic promoting healthy gut bacteria. They help lower

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cholesterol and support heart function, while their antioxidant properties
protect against free radical damage.
Features:
 Excellent source of energy and nutrients.
 Supports digestion and heart health.
 Rich in antioxidants and helps build immunity.
4. Bamboo Shoots
Bamboo shoots are tender sprouts of bamboo plants, known for being low in
calories and high in fiber. They provide vitamins A, B6, C, and E, and minerals
like potassium, calcium, and magnesium.

Medicinal Values: They promote digestive health by preventing constipation and
aid in cholesterol reduction and blood pressure control. Being low in fat and
calories, they are highly beneficial for weight loss and heart health.
Features:
 Fiber-rich, improves bowel movement.
 Reduces cholesterol and blood pressure.
 Supports healthy weight management.
5. Bitter Gourd (Momordica charantia)
Bitter gourd, also called karela, is one of the most medicinal vegetables known
for its anti-diabetic properties. Nutritionally, it contains vitamins A, C, K, and B-
complex, along with iron, zinc, potassium, and chromium.

Medicinal Values: Its medicinal value lies in its ability to lower blood sugar
levels naturally, as it contains compounds like charantia and polypeptide-P that
mimic insulin. It also aids digestion, detoxifies the liver, enhances immunity,
and improves skin health.
Features:
 Reduces blood sugar levels.
 Detoxifies liver and enhances immunity.
 Rich in antioxidants and essential minerals.

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6. Spinach (Spinacia oleracea)
Spinach is a dark leafy green vegetable loaded with vitamins A, C, and K, iron,
magnesium, and folate. It also contains antioxidants such as lutein and
zeaxanthin which are vital for eye health.
Medicinal Values: Medicinally, spinach strengthens bones, improves vision,
boosts immunity, and supports heart and brain functions. It is also helpful in
preventing anaemia due to its iron content and aids digestion through its fiber.
Features:
 Rich in iron and vitamins for blood and bone health.
 Prevents anaemia and supports eye health.
 Contains antioxidants that enhance immunity.
7. Moringa Leaves (Drumstick Leaves)
Moringa, often called the “Miracle Tree,” offers leaves rich in vitamins A, C, and
B-complex, along with iron, potassium, magnesium, and protein. It is also a
complete source of essential amino acids.
Medicinal Values: Medicinally, moringa leaves are antioxidant, anti-
inflammatory, and antimicrobial. They help in blood formation, boost immunity,
support liver detoxification, and improve skin and h air health.
Features:
 High in vitamins, minerals, and proteins.
 Acts as an antioxidant and immune booster.
 Aids blood purification and detoxification.
8. Amaranth Leaves
Amaranth leaves are nutritious greens containing manganese, magnesium,
phosphorus, and iron, as well as fiber and protein. They are valued for their
antioxidant and anti-inflammatory compounds.
Medicinal Values: Medicinally, they protect the liver (heap to protective), aid
digestion, and may have anti-cancer properties due to their rich phytochemical
content. They also promote weight management and prevent nutrient
deficiencies.

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Features:
 Nutrient-dense leafy green with liver-protective benefits.
 Rich in antioxidants and aids digestion.
 Supports metabolism and overall health.
9. Papaya (Carica papaya)
Papaya is a tropical fruit abundant in vitamin C, A, and fiber. It contains a
unique enzyme, papain, which helps digest proteins efficiently.

Medicinal Values: Medicinally, papaya enhances digestive function, promotes
skin glow, strengthens immunity, and protects against heart disease through its
antioxidant action. It also helps cleanse the digestive tract.
Features:
 Contains papain enzyme aiding digestion.
 Boosts immunity and heart health.
 Improves skin texture and reduces oxidative stress.
10. Guava (Psidium guajava)
Guava is one of the richest sources of vitamin C, providing more than oranges.
It also contains fiber, potassium, magnesium, folate, and iron .

Medicinal Values: Medicinally, guava strengthens immunity, supports
digestion, and regulates blood pressure. It is useful in preventing anaemia and
improving skin health. Its anti-inflammatory compounds support heart and gut
wellness.
Features:
 Strengthens immune system and controls blood pressure.
 High fiber promotes digestion.
 Rich in antioxidants and prevents anemia.

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11. Sapota (Chikoo)
Sapota, or Chikoo, is an energy-rich fruit filled with natural sugars, fiber,
vitamins A and C, and minerals like calcium, iron, and potassium .

Medicinal Values: Medicinally, it provides instant energy, improves digestion,
and is known for treating diarrhoea and inflammation. Its antioxidants
contribute to skin and hair health.
Features:
 High-energy fruit with natural sugars.
 Aids digestion and soothes inflammation.
 Improves hair and skin quality.
12. Mango (Mangifera indica)
Mango, often called the “King of Fruits,” is a powerhouse of vitamins A, C, and
E, along with fiber, folate, copper, and antioxidants.

Medicinal Values: It supports immunity, digestion, skin brightness, and vision.
Its antioxidants protect against oxidative stress and premature aging. Mangoes
also promote iron absorption and gut health.

Features:
 Enhances immunity and digestion.
 Promotes glowing skin and good eyesight.
 Provides antioxidant protection.
13. Orange (Citrus sinensis)
Oranges are among the most popular citrus fruits, known for their high vitamin
C and dietary fiber content. They also contain potassium and folate.

Medicinal Values: They help boost immunity, promote collagen synthesis for
healthy skin, and support heart health. Oranges aid iron absorption, preventing
anaemia, and contribute to healthy digestion.

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Features:
 Excellent source of Vitamin C.
 Promotes collagen and iron absorption.
 Keeps the heart and immune system strong.
14. Pomegranate (Punica granatum)
Pomegranate is a nutrient-dense fruit rich in fiber, vitamin C, potassium, and
powerful antioxidants like punicalagins and anthocyanins .

Medicinal Values: It supports heart health by improving circulation and
reducing cholesterol. Its antioxidants fight inflammation, promote brain and
skin health, and may reduce cancer risk.

Features:
 High in antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds.
 Supports heart and brain function.
 Strengthens immunity and protects skin.
15. Lemon (Citrus limon)
Lemon is a citrus fruit packed with vitamin C, citric acid, and pectin fiber.

Medicinal Values: It is widely known for boosting immunity, enhancing iron
absorption, and promoting skin health. The citric acid in lemons prevents kidney
stones, while pectin improves digestion and weight control.
Features:
 Excellent for detoxification and hydration.
 Prevents kidney stones and enhances digestion.
 Strengthens immunity and improves skin.
16. Banana (Musa spp.)
Banana is a versatile and highly nutritious fruit containing potassium, vitamin
C, vitamin B6, and dietary fiber.

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Medicinal Values: It maintains heart health by regulating blood pressure, acts
as a natural antacid to prevent acidity, and provides a quick source of energy.
The presence of tryptophan helps improve mood and nerve function.
Features:
 Maintains heart and nerve function.
 Aids digestion and relieves acidity.
 Boosts energy and improves mood.

Part A – (2 Marks) Questions
1. Define the nutritive value of fruits and vegetables.
2. Name any two vitamins commonly found in vegetables.
3. Mention two minerals present in bottle gourd.
4. What is the medicinal use of white ash gourd?
5. State one health benefit of plantain.
6. Name two vitamins present in spinach.
7. What is the enzyme present in papaya?
8. List any two functions of Vitamin C.
9. Write any two medicinal uses of moringa leaves.
10. Which mineral is abundant in banana?
11. Give two benefits of eating bitter gourd.
12. Mention the phytochemicals present in fruits and vegetables.
13. What is the nutritive importance of dietary fiber?
14. State any two benefits of pomegranate.
15. Name any two antioxidant-rich vegetables.
16. Write two features of bamboo shoots.
17. Mention two medicinal values of lemon.
18. Give two benefits of consuming guava.
19. What is the percentage of water content in bottle gourd?
20. Which fruit is known as the “King of Fruits”?

Part B – (5 Marks) Questions
21. Write a short note on the nutritive and medicinal values of bottle gourd.
22. Explain the health benefits of white ash gourd.

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23. Describe the nutritional composition and medicinal uses of spinach.
24. Discuss the role of plantain in digestion and heart health.
25. Explain the importance of bitter gourd in controlling diabetes.
26. Write short notes on moringa leaves as a “superfood”.
27. Discuss the digestive and medicinal benefits of papaya.
28. Explain the nutritional importance of citrus fruits with examples.
29. Describe the nutritive value and medicinal role of pomegranate.
30. Write short notes on the role of dietary fiber in fruits and vegetables.
31. Enumerate the benefits of consuming banana regularly.
32. Explain how antioxidants in fruits prevent chronic diseases.
33. Describe amaranth leaves and their medicinal importance.
34. Discuss the role of vitamins A, C, and K in maintaining health.
35. Explain any two vegetables used in traditional medicine and their importance.
Part C – (10 Marks) Questions
36. Elaborate on the nutritive and medicinal values of common vegetables such as
bottle gourd, spinach, and bitter gourd.
37. Explain in detail the nutritional composition and health benefits of selected
fruits — papaya, guava, and pomegranate.
38. Discuss the importance of vitamins, minerals, and dietary fiber found in fruits
and vegetables in maintaining human health.
39. Analyze the role of antioxidants and phytochemicals in disease prevention and
body detoxification.
40. “Fruits and vegetables are nature’s medicine chest.” — Justify this statement
with examples.
41. Compare and contrast the nutritional and medicinal values of moringa leaves
and amaranth leaves.
42. Explain in detail how citrus fruits (orange and lemon) contribute to immunity,
digestion, and detoxification.
43. Write an essay on the significance of including green leafy vegetables in daily diet
with suitable examples.
44. Discuss the role of plant-based foods in managing chronic diseases like diabetes,
heart disease, and obesity.
45. Evaluate the overall benefits of fruits and vegetables in promoting longevity and
wellness with suitable examples.