DOCSLIB.ORG

EFFECT of AQUEOUS EXTRACT of Citrullus Lanatus (Water Melon) SEED on the LIVER of ETHANOL TREATED ADULT WISTAR RATS

Total Page：16

File Type：pdf, Size：1020Kb

Download full-text PDF Read full-text
EFFECT of AQUEOUS EXTRACT of Citrullus Lanatus (Water Melon) SEED on the LIVER of ETHANOL TREATED ADULT WISTAR RATS EFFECT OF AQUEOUS EXTRACT OF Citrullus lanatus (Water melon) SEED ON THE LIVER OF ETHANOL TREATED ADULT WISTAR RATS BY Anthony Bazabang SEBASTINE, [BSc. (ABU) 2010] M.Sc./MED/21415/2012-2013 A DISSERTATION SUBMITTED TO THE SCHOOL OF POSTGRADUATE STUDIES, AHMADU BELLO UNIVERSITY, ZARIA, NIGERIA IN PARTIAL FULFILLMENT OF THE REQUIREMENTS FOR THE AWARD OF THE DEGREE OF MASTER OF SCIENCE IN HUMAN ANATOMY DEPARTMENT OF HUMAN ANATOMY FACULTY OF MEDICINE AHMADU BELLO UNIVERSITY, ZARIA, NIGERIA OCTOBER, 2016 i DECLARATION I, ANTHONY, BAZABANG SEBASTINE, declare that this dissertation titled ‗‗Effect of Aqueous extract of Citrullus lanatus (water melon) seed on the liver of ethanol treated adult Wistar rats” was carried out by me in the Department of Human Anatomy, Faculty of Medicine, Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria. The information used for my literature review was fully acknowledged in the text and references. To the best of my knowledge, no part of this dissertation has been presented elsewhere for this degree or diploma at any University. ______________ __________ Anthony Bazabang SEBASTINE Signature Date ii CERTIFICATION This is to certify that this dissertation titled, ―Effect of Aqueous extract of Citrullus lanatus (water melon) seed on the liver of ethanol treated adult Wistar rats” under our supervision meets the regulations governing the award of degree of Master of Science in Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria and is approved for its contribution to knowledge and literacy presentation. Prof. S.S Adebisi (B.Sc, M.Sc., Ph.D.) __________________ ___________ Chairman Supervisory Committee, Signature Date Department of Human Anatomy, Faculty of Medicine, Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria. Dr. (Mrs.) J.N Alawa (B.Sc, M.Sc., Ph.D.) _________________ ___________ Member Supervisory Committee, Signature Date Department of Human Anatomy, Faculty of Medicine, Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria. Prof. S.S.Adebisi (B.Sc, M.Sc., Ph.D.) _______________ ___________ Head of Department, Signature Date Department of Human Anatomy, Faculty of Medicine, Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria. Prof. Kabiru Bala ____________ ____________ Dean, School of Postgraduate Studies, Signature Date Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria. iii DEDICATION This work is dedicated to Almighty God, my beloved mother Mrs. Theresa Sebastine and to all suffering from different types of liver diseases. iv ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS I hereby wish to tender my immeasurable appreciation and thanks to Almighty God for sparing my life throughout the programme. My profound gratitude goes to my Supervisor Prof. S.S Adebisi for his time, patience, encouragement, support and guidance and corrections during the course of my work. This work would not have been possible without your contribution. Worthy of mention is my other Supervisor Dr. (Mrs.) J.N. Alawa who contributed immensely to the accomplishment of this work. Your constructive criticisms and inputs is deeply appreciated ma. I sincerely thank Mr. Bamidele Adetiba, Mr. J.D. Yaro, Mr. peter akpulu and the entire staff of the histology laboratory, Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria for assisting in the histological aspect of the work, Mr. Aliyu of the department of Biochemistry for helping in the aspect of protein concentration of the liver and Dr. Ibrahim A. Iliya for helping with the photomicrography and interpretation of the slides. I want to profoundly acknowledge the effort and contribution of the Head of Department of Human Anatomy in person of Prof. S.S. Adebisi in the success and completion of this dissertation. The postgraduate lecturers in the Department of Human Anatomy also played significant role towards my programme and deserve commendation. Thank you to Dr. B. Danborno, Dr. W.O Hamman, Dr. U.E. Umana, Dr. A. Ibegbu, Dr. I.A. Iliya, Dr. J.A. Timbuak and Dr. S.A Musa for the knowledge impacted in me and my colleagues. I also acknowledge the administrative and non-academic staff of the department for their roles in the course of my research. v With lots of love I appreciate the care, support, encouragement and assistance I received from my mother Mrs. Theresa Sebastine and my siblings Miss Appolonia Sebastine, Mr. Simeon Sebastine, Rev. Fr. Vincent Sebastine and Mr. Andrew Sebastine. I cherish and adore you all. A special thanks to my friends and classmates for their companionship, cooperation and assistance in one way or the other. Space will not permit me to mention other names, but I must appreciate my very dear friends David Dangoji, Makena Wusa, Juliet Ijeoma Naneh, Monday Nwankwo, Mathew Twan, Ahmed Hassan, Isaac Joseph, Donald Ayemoba, Thaddeus Tanko, and Ikechukwu Haruna,. Thank you for the moments we shared together, I treasure you all. vi TABLE OF CONTENTS Title Page-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- i Declaration------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- ii Certification----------------------------------------------------------------------------------- iii Dedication ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- iv Acknowledgement --------------------------------------------------------------------------- v Table of Contents----------------------------------------------------------------------------- vii List of Tables---------------------------------------------------------------------------------- x List of Figures--------------------------------------------------------------------------------- xi Abstract------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- xiv 1.0 INTRODUCTION ----------------------------------------------------------------- 1 1.1 Background of the Study--------------------------------------------------------- 1 1.2 Statement of the Problem--------------------------------------------------------- 4 1.3 Justification ------------------------------------------------------------------------- 5 1.4 Aim and objectives --------------------------------------------------------------- 5 1.4.1 Aims of the Study------------------------------------------------------------------- 5 1.4.2 Objectives of the Study ----------------------------------------------------------- 5 1.5 Significance of the Study---------------------------------------------------------- 6 1.6 Study Hypothesis------------------------------------------------------------------- 6 2.0 LITERATURE REVIEW ------------------------------------------------------ 7 2.1 LIVER ------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 7 vii 2.1.1 Embryology of the liver ------------------------------------------------------------ 8 2.1.2 Gross Anatomy of the Liver ----------------------------------------------------- 9 2.1.3 Histology of the Liver ------------------------------------------------------------ 11 2.1.4 Functions of the Liver ---------------------------------------------------------- 13 2.2 Hepatotoxicity -------------------------------------------------------------------- 14 2.2.1 Hepatotoxicity due to ethanol ---------------------------------------------------- 15 2.2.2 Incidence of Hapatotoxicity ------------------------------------------------------ 16 2.2.3 Causes of Hepatotoxicity ---------------------------------------------------------- 17 2.2.4 Drugs used in the treatment of Hepatotoxicity ----------------------------------- 24 2.3 ALCOHOL ---------------------------------------------------------- --------------- 26 2.3.1 Alcoholism --------------------------------------------------------------------------- 25 2.3.2 Effects of Alcohol on Mitochondrial Biomolecules ---------------------------- 27 2.3.3 Pharmacokinetics ------------------------------------------------------------------- 31 2.3.4 Alcohol Effects on the Liver ------------------------------------------------------ 32 2.3.5 Liver Diseases ----------------------------------------------------------------------- 34 2.4 Citrullus lanatus -------------------------------------------------------------------- 36 2.4.1 Taxonomy of Citrullus lanatus------------------------------------------------------ -36 2.4.2 Origin and distribution of Citrullus lanatus--------------------------------------- 37 2.4.3 Morphology of Citrullus lanatus -------------------------------------------------- ---37 2.4.4 Phytochemistry of Citrullus lanatus ---------------------------------------------- ---38 2.4.5 Pharmacological studies of Citrullus lanatus ----------------------------------- ---39 2.4.6 Toxicological studies of Citrullus lanatus --------------------------------------- ---43 3.0 MATERIALS AND METHODOLOGY 3.1 MATERIALS ----------------------------------------------------------------------- ---45 3.1.1 Experimental Animals -------------------------------------------------------------- ---45 3.1.2 Experimental Plant ------------------------------------------------------------------ ---45 viii 3.1.3 Drugs and reagents ------------------------------------------------------------------ ---45 3.1.4 Equipment ---------------------------------------------------------------------------- ---46 3.2 Methods ------------------------------------------------------------------------------ ---44 3.2.1 Extraction of Plant ------------------------------------------------------------------ ---44 3.2.2 Experimental design ---------------------------------------------------------------- ---47 3.2.3 Morphological studies -------------------------------------------------------------- ---48 3.2.4 Biochemical studies -----------------------------------------------------------------
Load more

Recommended publications
  • Citron Watermelon Potential to Improve Crop Diversification and Reduce Negative Impacts of Climate Change
    Preprints (www.preprints.org) | NOT PEER-REVIEWED | Posted: 12 January 2021 doi:10.20944/preprints202101.0213.v1 Review Citron watermelon potential to improve crop diversification and reduce negative impacts of climate change Takudzwa Mandizvo 1*, Alfred Oduor Odindo1 and Jacob Mashilo2, 1 Crop Science, School of Agricultural Earth and Environmental Sciences, University of KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa 2 Limpopo Department of Agriculture and Rural Development Towoomba Research Station, Private Bag X1615, Bela-Bela 0480, South Africa * Correspondence: [email protected]; Tel.: +27629810895 Abstract: Citron watermelon (Citrullus lanatus var. citroides) is an underexploited and un- der-researched crop species with potential to contribute to crop diversification in sub-Saharan Af- rica and beyond. The species is commonly cultivated in the drier parts of Southern Africa, mainly by smallholder farmers who maintain a wide range of landraces. Understanding the molecular and morpho-physiological basis for drought adaptation of Citron watermelon in these dry environ- ments can aid in screening local germplasm, identification of suitable traits for crop improvement and improving food system resilience among smallholder farmers by adding to crop diversifica- tion. This paper reviews literature on drought adaptation of C. lanatus spp. (C3 xerophytes), using the systematic review approach. The review discusses; (i) the potential role of citron watermelon in adding to crop diversification, (ii) alternative food uses and potential by-products that can be pro- cessed from citron watermelon and (iii) the role of Sub-Saharan farmers as key actors in conserving citron watermelon germplasm and biodiversity. Finally, the review provides a summary of signif- icant findings and identifies critical knowledge gaps for further research.
    [Show full text]
  • Citrullus L. Lanatus) Production in Hungary from the Middle Ages (13 Th Century
    Tóth Zoltán 1, Gábor Gyulai 1, Zoltán Szabó 1,2 , Lajos Horváth 3 and László Heszky 1 Watermelon (Citrullus l. lanatus) production in Hungary from the Middle Ages (13 th century) 3,000-yr old watermelon seeds Egypt and Libya implies that tion of a site from 4,000 B.C. in pyramid of Pharaoh domestication might have About 5,000-yr old seed remains Tutankhamum occurred in Northern Africa. were excavated in Uan (ca. 1,330 B.C.) The oldest seed remains with Muhuggiag, Lybia, Africa from a proven human activity have site 3,000 B.C. Several watermel - The monotypic genus Citrullus revealed only cereals as wild on seeds were found in Pharaoh ’s is comprised of only four diploid barley (H. spontaneum ) and wild tomb as in Thebes (New (2n = 4× = 22; 4.25 – 4.54 × 10 8 emmer ( Triticum dicoccoides ) Kingdom: 1,550 –1,070 B.C.; bp; 0.42 pg DNS) species, includ - from 19,000 B.P. at Ohalo II., stored in Agricultural Museum, ing the annual watermelon River Jordan. The 15,000 B.P. site Dokki, Giza, Egypt) and in the (Citrullus lanatus ), the perennial in Korea (Chungbuk National pyramid of Tutankhamum ca. colocynth ( syn. : bitter apple) University, South Korea) revealed 1,330 B.C. ( Fig. 1). (Citrullus colocynthis ), and two the first ancient rice ( Oryza sati - The Greeks and Romans trav - wild species growing in Kalahari va ) seeds. eling to Egypt must to have Desert, Africa as the Citrullus The first Cucurbit seed known of watermelons probably ecirrhosus with bitter-tasting fruit, remains were excavated from the without discriminating colocynth, and the annual Citrullus rehmii Spirit Cave (Hoabinh, Thailand) citron melon, and watermelon.
    [Show full text]
  • Cucurbit Seed Production
    CUCURBIT SEED PRODUCTION An organic seed production manual for seed growers in the Mid-Atlantic and Southern U.S. Copyright © 2005 by Jeffrey H. McCormack, Ph.D. Some rights reserved. See page 36 for distribution and licensing information. For updates and additional resources, visit www.savingourseeds.org For comments or suggestions contact: [email protected] For distribution information please contact: Cricket Rakita Jeff McCormack Carolina Farm Stewardship Association or Garden Medicinals and Culinaries www.carolinafarmstewards.org www.gardenmedicinals.com www.savingourseed.org www.savingourseeds.org P.O. Box 448, Pittsboro, NC 27312 P.O. Box 320, Earlysville, VA 22936 (919) 542-2402 (434) 964-9113 Funding for this project was provided by USDA-CREES (Cooperative State Research, Education, and Extension Service) through Southern SARE (Sustainable Agriculture Research and Education). Copyright © 2005 by Jeff McCormack 1 Version 1.4 November 2, 2005 Cucurbit Seed Production TABLE OF CONTENTS Scope of this manual .............................................................................................. 2 Botanical classification of cucurbits .................................................................... 3 Squash ......................................................................................................................... 4 Cucumber ................................................................................................................... 15 Melon (Muskmelon) .................................................................................................
    [Show full text]
  • Product Information
    71512-1-100_Omega 500F_20170705_139-4_100-2_.pdf SUPPLEMENTAL LABELING Syngenta Crop Protection, LLC P. O. Box 18300 Greensboro, North Carolina 27419-8300 SCP 71512A-S4 0516 GROUP 29 FUNGICIDE SUPPLEMENTAL DIRECTIONS FOR THE USE OF OMEGA® 500F (EPA Reg. No. 71512-1-100) FOR CONTROL OF DISEASES ON MELONS This Supplemental Label Expires on May 30, 2019 and must not be used or distributed after this date. Directions for Use: It is a violation of Federal law to use this product in a manner inconsistent with its labeling. DISEASES PRODUCT RATE PER ACRE CROP: CUCURBIT VEGETABLES, MELON SUBGROUP 9A Phytophthora blight Phytophthora capsici Downy mildew Pseudoperonospora cubensis Gummy stem blight Didymella bryoniae 0.75 to 1.5 pints Alternaria leaf spot Alternaria cucumerina APPLICATION DIRECTIONS: For Phytophthora blight control the first application may be made at 1.5 pt/A as a banded soil drench at transplant or when the plants have the first true leaves. Subsequent foliar applications for Phytophthora blight and downy mildew should be made at 0.75 to 1 pt/A on a 7 – 10-day interval beginning when disease first appears or when conditions are favorable for disease development. Use the low rate when conditions are favorable for disease development or when disease pressure is low to moderate. Use sufficient water to provide coverage of the foliage. For Phytophthora blight and gummy stem blight, applications should be directed to provide coverage of the lower stem area. Use the low rate and longest interval for preventative applications and when disease pressure is low. Increase the rate and decrease the interval as disease pressure increases.
    [Show full text]
  • Watermelon Origin Solved with Molecular Phylogenetics Including Linnaean Material: Another Example of Museomics
    Research Rapid report Watermelon origin solved with molecular phylogenetics including Linnaean material: another example of museomics Authors for correspondence: Guillaume Chomicki and Susanne S. Renner Guillaume Chomicki Department of Biology, University of Munich (LMU), Menzinger Straße 67, Munich 80628, Germany Tel: +49 89 17861 285 Email: [email protected] Susanne S. Renner Tel: +49 89 17861 257 Email: [email protected] Received: 28 July 2014 Accepted: 23 September 2014 Summary New Phytologist (2015) 205: 526–532 Type specimens are permanently preserved biological specimens that fix the usage of species doi: 10.1111/nph.13163 names. This method became widespread from 1935 onwards and is now obligatory. We used DNA sequencing of types and more recent collections of wild and cultivated melons Key words: Citrullus, crop origin, domestica- to reconstruct the evolutionary history of the genus Citrullus and the correct names for its tion, phylogenetics, taxonomy, watermelon. species. We discovered that the type specimen of the name Citrullus lanatus, prepared by a Linnaean collector in South Africa in 1773, is not the species now thought of as watermelon. Instead, it is a representative of another species that is sister to C. ecirrhosus, a tendril-less South African endemic. The closest relative of the watermelon instead is a West African species. Our nuclear and plastid data furthermore reveal that there are seven species of Citrullus, not four as assumed. Our study implies that sweet watermelon originates from West, not southern Africa as previously believed, and that the South African citron melon has been independently domesticated. These findings affect and explain numerous studies on the origin of these two crops that led to contradictory results because of the erroneous merging of several distinct species.
    [Show full text]
  • A Comprehensive Review on Watermelon Seed Oil – an Underutilized Product
    IOSR Journal Of Pharmacywww.iosrphr.org (e)-ISSN: 2250-3013, (p)-ISSN: 2319-4219 Volume 7, Issue 11 Version. 1 (November 2017), PP. 01-07 A comprehensive review on watermelon seed oil – an underutilized product Reetapa Biswas1, Subarna Ghosal2, Alok Chattopadhyay3 and Santa Datta (De)4 1, 2, 4(Department of Home Science, Food and Nutrition Division, University of Calcutta, India) 3(Department of Physiology, Harimohan Ghosh College, University of Calcutta, India) Corresponding Author: Reetapa Biswas Abstract: Watermelon seed is one of the underexplored and unutilized sources of oil containing essential fatty acids, vitamin-E, minerals and also have anti-oxidant activity and is suitable for cooking. The objective of this study is to aware people about the properties of watermelon seed oil and the potential benefits of the oil. According to most of the researchers’ watermelon seed oil has positive impact on growth and it has cardioprotective, hepatoprotective and anti-diabetic effects. After thorough comprehensive toxicological investigation, animal studies, physicochemical characteristics and nutritional analysis, it is recommended that it is the demand of time to explore its commercial potential. Keywords: animal studies, fatty acids, physicochemical characteristics, watermelon seed oil. --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Date of Submission: 28-10-2017 Date of acceptance: 10-11-2017 --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- I. INTRODUCTION Oils extracted from plant sources have a rich history of use by local people as a source of food, energy, medicine and for cosmetic applications. The continued increase in human population has resulted in the rise in the demand as well as the price of edible oils, leading to the search for alternative unconventional sources of oils, particularly in the developing countries.
    [Show full text]
  • Seed Production, Viability and Germination of Citrullus
    SEED PRODUCTION, VIABILITY AND GERMINATION OF CITRULLUS LANATUS AT THE KING NEHALE CONSERVANCY IN NAMIBIA A THESIS SUBMITTED IN PARTIAL FULFILMENT OF THE REQUIREMENTS FOR THE DEGREE OF MASTER OF SCIENCE OF THE UNIVERSITY OF NAMIBIA AND THE HUMBOLDT-UNIVERSITÄT ZU BERLIN BY UAZAMO KAURA FEBRUARY 2009 SUPERVISOR: DR. MUTJINDE KATJIUA CO-SUPERVISOR: MR. MICHEL MALLET 1 SEED PRODUCTION, VIABILITY AND GERMINATION OF CITRULLUS LANATUS AT THE KING NEHALE CONSERVANCY IN NAMIBIA A THESIS SUBMITTED IN PARTIAL FULFILMENT OF THE REQUIREMENTS FOR THE DEGREE OF MASTER OF SCIENCE IN BIODIVERSITY MANAGEMENT AND RESEARCH AT UNIVERSITY OF NAMIBIA AND HUMBOLDT-UNIVERSITÄT ZU BERLIN By Uazamo Kaura Supervisor: Dr. Mutjinde Katjiua (University of Namibia) Co-supervisor: Mr. Michel Mallet (Center for Research-Information-Action for development in Africa - Southern Africa Development and Consulting (CRIAA SA- DC)) February 2009 2 TABLE OF CONTENTS _______________________________________________________ DECLARATION.............................................................................................................................................I ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS............................................................................................................................I DEDICATION..............................................................................................................................................III ABSTRACT..................................................................................................................................................III
    [Show full text]
  • Genetic and Pre- and Postharvest Factors Influencing the Content Of
    antioxidants Review Genetic and Pre- and Postharvest Factors Influencing the Content of Antioxidants in Cucurbit Crops Cecilia Martínez, Juan Luis Valenzuela and Manuel Jamilena * Department of Biology and Geology, Agrifood Campus of International Excellence (CeiA3) and CIAIMBITAL Reseach Center, University of Almería, 04120 Almería, Spain; [email protected] (C.M.); [email protected] (J.L.V.) * Correspondence: [email protected] Abstract: Cucurbitaceae is one of the most economically important plant families, and includes some worldwide cultivated species like cucumber, melons, and squashes, and some regionally cultivated and feral species that contribute to the human diet. For centuries, cucurbits have been appreciated because of their nutritional value and, in traditional medicine, because of their ability to alleviate certain ailments. Several studies have demonstrated the remarkable contents of valuable compounds in cucurbits, including antioxidants such as polyphenols, flavonoids, and carotenoids, but also tannins and terpenoids, which are abundant. This antioxidant power is beneficial for human health, but also in facing plant diseases and abiotic stresses. This review brings together data on the antioxidant properties of cucurbit species, addressing the genetic and pre- and postharvest factors that regulate the antioxidant content in different plant organs. Environmental conditions, management, storage, and pre- and postharvest treatments influencing the biosynthesis and activity of antioxidants, together with the biodiversity of this family, are determinant in improving the antioxidant potential of this group of species. Plant breeding, as well as the development of innovative biotechnological Citation: Martínez, C.; Valenzuela, approaches, is also leading to new possibilities for exploiting cucurbits as functional products. J.L.; Jamilena, M. Genetic and Pre- and Postharvest Factors Influencing Keywords: antioxidants; Cucurbitaceae; genotype; stress; biotechnology; natural variability the Content of Antioxidants in Cucurbit Crops.
    [Show full text]
  • Product Information
    SUPPLEMENTAL LABELING Syngenta Crop Protection, LLC P. O. Box 18300 Greensboro, North Carolina 27419-8300 SCP 71512A-S4 0516 GROUP 29 FUNGICIDE SUPPLEMENTAL DIRECTIONS FOR THE USE OF OMEGA® 500F (EPA Reg. No. 71512-1-100) FOR CONTROL OF DISEASES ON MELONS This Supplemental Label Expires on May 30, 2019 and must not be used or distributed after this date. Directions for Use: It is a violation of Federal law to use this product in a manner inconsistent with its labeling. DISEASES PRODUCT RATE PER ACRE CROP: CUCURBIT VEGETABLES, MELON SUBGROUP 9A Phytophthora blight Phytophthora capsici Downy mildew Pseudoperonospora cubensis Gummy stem blight Didymella bryoniae 0.75 to 1.5 pints Alternaria leaf spot Alternaria cucumerina APPLICATION DIRECTIONS: For Phytophthora blight control the first application may be made at 1.5 pt/A as a banded soil drench at transplant or when the plants have the first true leaves. Subsequent foliar applications for Phytophthora blight and downy mildew should be made at 0.75 to 1 pt/A on a 7 – 10-day interval beginning when disease first appears or when conditions are favorable for disease development. Use the low rate when conditions are favorable for disease development or when disease pressure is low to moderate. Use sufficient water to provide coverage of the foliage. For Phytophthora blight and gummy stem blight, applications should be directed to provide coverage of the lower stem area. Use the low rate and longest interval for preventative applications and when disease pressure is low. Increase the rate and decrease the interval as disease pressure increases.
    [Show full text]
  • Chemical Composition and Fermentation Studies of Citron '
    CHEMICAL COMPOSITION AND FERMENTATION STUDIES OF CITRON ' By C. R. FELLERS, research professor^ and E. G. SMITH, research fellow. Depart- ment of Horticultural Manufactures, Massachusetts Agricultural Experiment Station INTRODUCTION The citron, Citrus medica Linn., originally introduced into southern Europe from the Orient, is now grown in limited quantities in Puerto Rico, California, and Florida. When ripe the fruit resembles a giant lemon. It is normally picked while it is somewhat immature and the epicarp is still green. The essential oils in the fruit are oil of citron and oil of cedra, which are present in oil sacs in the skin (fig. 1). The thick mesocarp is used for preserving; the pulpy center containing the seeds is discarded. The true citron should not be confused with the citron melon, a variety of Citrullus vulgaris, the common watermelon. The true citron is inedible in the raw state. In preparation for preserving it is usually halved and subjected to a prolonged fermentation in either sea water or a 5- to 10-percent salt brine. The fermentation removes the bitterness, clears the mesocarp, softens the tissues, and makes it possible for them to absorb high concentrations of sugar. Following the removal of salt from the peel, the preserving process consists essentially in gradually increasing the sugar content of the peel by immersion in a series of sugar sirups of increasing strength. After draining and drying, the peel is ready for market under the name of either preserved or candied citron. Because of the paucity of published data on the fermentation and the chemical and nutritive properties of citron, a laboratory study involving these subjects seemed desirable.
    [Show full text]
  • Citrullus Lanatus Var. Citroides) Analiza Henedina M
    Weed Science 2014 62:45–50 Factors Affecting Germination of Citronmelon (Citrullus lanatus var. citroides) Analiza Henedina M. Ramirez, Amit J. Jhala, and Megh Singh* Citron melon is a monoecious, hairy annual vine commonly found in citrus orchards, and cotton and peanut fields. Information is not available on the effect of various environmental factors on the germination of citron melon. Laboratory and greenhouse experiments were carried out in 2011 and 2012 to determine the effect of light, temperature, salinity, pH, simulated water stress, and depth of sowing on the germination of citron melon. Citron melon germination was affected by various environmental factors. Highest germination was observed at day/night temperatures of 25/20 to 30/ 25 C regardless of light conditions. At temperatures below 25 C and beyond 35 C, germination declined and was higher under dark condition than light. Germination decreased as osmotic potential became more negative (20.3 MPa to 21.5 MPa) and salt concentration increased (50 to 350 mM). No germination was observed at . 20.9 MPa and $ 300 mM salt concentrations. However, germination was observed over a broad range of pH (3 to 9) and up to 10-cm sowing depths. Seeds sown at the surface did not germinate but maximum germination (88 to 96%) occurred at 2- to 4-cm depth. The results of this study suggest that citron melon can grow in a wide range of climatic conditions and therefore can persist in Florida because of favorable weather and environmental conditions. Nomenclature: Citronmelon, Citrullus lanatus (Thunb.) Mats & Nakai var. citroides (L.H. Bailey) Mansf., CILAC.
    [Show full text]
  • Identification of Vine Weeds in Florida Citrus1 Stephen H
    HS926 Identification of Vine Weeds in Florida Citrus1 Stephen H. Futch and David W. Hall2 Vines are classified as broadleaf plants. As with other Balsam-Apple Vine Momordica plants, they are classified as either annuals, biennials, or perennials. A combination of leaf, stem, fruit, and/or charantia seed characteristics will aid in the identification process. Useful guide characteristics to identify broadleaf plants are included at the end of this article. Most vine species are easier to control with herbicides when in the seedling stage. Once vines reach into the tree canopy they blend into the host foliage and an insufficient amount of post emergence herbicide contacts the plant to provide adequate vine control. When control strategies are implemented, vines inhabiting nearby ditches, fields or other locations can provide seed sources for future infesta- tions and should be addressed in your control program. Preventing vines from becoming widely distributed and concentrating efforts when they are present in isolated areas can aid in their control. Vines will compete with a tree for light and can shade the entire canopy if left uncontrolled. Figure 1. Balsam-apple vine. By controlling vines, tree vigor is maintained, yields are Leaves: alternate, petioles 3 to 6 cm long. Leaf blades are often higher, and harvesting operations are improved. smooth to hairy, deeply palmate, 5- to 7-lobed, and up to 12 cm wide. Leaf blade lobes are rounded to pointed with toothed margins. Stems: slender, with twisting threadlike tendrils. Flowers: yellow, funnel-shaped, usually borne singly on a stalk. Flower petals are rounded or indented at the tip and up to 1 cm long.
    [Show full text]