A Review on Bioactive Compounds of Yam Varieties for Human Disease Management
Ann N. Kanu *
National Root Crops Research Institute, Umudike, Umuahia, Abia State, Nigeria and Centre for Food Technology and Research, Benue State University, Makurdi, Benue State, Nigeria
Chinelo V. Ezeocha
Micheal Okpara University of Agricultre, Umudike, Abia State, Nigeria
Nwamaka P. Ogunka
National Root Crops Research Institute, Umudike, Umuahia, Abia State, Nigeria
*Author to whom correspondence should be addressed.
Abstract
Bioactive compounds are secondary metabolites found in plants other than the nutrient in a plant that has health benefits to the consumers. These compounds in the plant have different structure and functions. Some of the functions are antioxidative, antihypertensive, anti-inflammatory, antidiabetic etc, Yams are edible tuberous roots which belong to Dioscorea family, and are rich in bioactive compounds such as phenol, saponin, the bioactive peptide, Discorin and diosgenin. Discorin, and Diosgenin are main bioactive compounds. These compounds have therapeutic properties which improve and change health status of an individual. Their therapeutic properties are pronounced when the bioactive compounds have been extracted. This improves its efficacy and gives it an opportunity to act better.
Keywords: Disease management, bioactive compounds, dioscorea