Exploration of Bioactive Compounds And Medicinal Properties of Chenopodium Quinoa Willd Seeds

Abstract

Chenopodium quinoa (quinoa) is a nutrient-rich pseudocereal recognized for its
remarkable nutritional value and diverse spectrum of bioactive compounds. The present
study aimed to evaluate the phytochemical constituents, antioxidant activity, and anti-
inflammatory potential of quinoa seed extracts. Preliminary phytochemical screening was
carried out to identify major secondary metabolites, including alkaloids, glycosides,
carbohydrates, saponins, betacyanins, proteins, terpenoids, coumarins, oils, and quinones.
The antioxidant activity of the extracts was assessed using the 2,2-diphenyl-1-
picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) radical scavenging assay, whereas the anti-inflammatory activity
was evaluated through the inhibition of albumin denaturation method. Furthermore, Gas
Chromatography–Mass Spectrometry (GC–MS) analysis was performed to identify the
bioactive compounds present in the seed extracts. The findings revealed the presence of
several phytochemically active constituents with significant antioxidant and anti-
inflammatory properties, suggesting the therapeutic and nutraceutical potential of quinoa
seeds. This study provides scientific evidence supporting the utilization of quinoa as a
promising natural source of bioactive compounds for pharmaceutical and functional food
applications.