Vol. 11, Issue 7 (2022)

Author(s):
Maddela Kiranmai

Abstract:
Dragon fruit is scientifically known as Hylocereus spp, belongs to the Cactaceae family and has 18 more species. It is originated from Central and South America and has been grown all- over India from past few decays. Besides its attractive colour, dragon fruit is prevailed globally for its nutrients and the health-promoting and used in food processing industry, cosmetic and pharmaceutical industries. A wide ranging of phytochemicals of antioxidants like betalains, polyphenolic compounds and carotenoids are discovered which have chemo-protective properties against oxidant stress in the body as well as maintain optimum equilibrium between antioxidants and oxidants for the enhancing of human health. The findings of this review are important to deliver an overview of Hylocereus undatus and its functional nutritional composition, nutraceutical activities and the food application with relation to its potential health benefit in providing perspectives of research and application the consumer’s daily life.