Composição química do óleo essencial e mineral de folhas de (Arracacia xanthorrhiza Brancroft)

Abstract

Parsley cassava (Arracacia xanthorrhiza Bancroft) is a perennial rhizomatous vegetable that belongs to the Apiaceae family, originating in the Andean countries. The tuberization process is highly dependent on specific climatic conditions that determine harvest and off-season periods. Scientific research has indicated potential medicinal benefits of this plant. As a vegetable, it falls within the energy food group due to its high carbohydrate content. It is also an excellent source of B and A complex vitamins, as well as calcium, phosphorus, iron, vitamin C, and fiber. Noteworthy for its high digestibility and diuretic properties, it can be classified as a nutraceutical food. Exploring the medicinal potential of plants primarily cultivated as food can enhance the crop's value and contribute to improved income, especially for small-scale producers, in addition to the pivotal role of medicinal plants in healthcare systems. The objective of this study was to assess the potential of Arracacia xanthorrhiza leaves for essential oil production and to evaluate the mineral composition of experimental clones. The essential oil extraction was performed using a modified Clevenger apparatus, while the macro and micronutrient contents of the dried leaves were analyzed. The chemical composition of the oils was determined using gas chromatography coupled with a mass spectrometer (GC/MS). Mineral analyses were conducted via digestion using nitro perchloric solution (HNO3 and HCLO4 (2:1)), and the solution was measured using Inductive Coupled Plasma (ICP). The chemical composition of the essential oil extracted from the dried leaves of both clones exhibited the same chemical makeup, identifying 15 compounds representing a total of 98.47%, with limonene (71,56%) and myrcene (11,36%) being the predominant compounds. The identified compounds are mainly monoterpene hydrocarbons (86,98%), followed by sesquiterpene hydrocarbons (6,97%), saturated aldehydes + polyacetylenes (3,65%), total oxygenated monoterpenes (0,20%), and others (0,67%). In addition to macro and micronutrients, some heavy metals were also detected in the mineral content of the dry matter of the leaves of the Yellow and Cream clones. Although no variation was observed in the mineral content between the two clones, except for Nitrogen and Barium, it is crucial to note that nutrition plays a substantial role in essential oil synthesis, effectively augmenting both quantity and quality.