Agricultural and Biological Research

A review on medicinal properties and nutritional security of Okra

Vipul Pratap Singh, Bankey Lal*, Surabhi Sharma and Arun Kumar Verma

There has been a recent paradigm shift away from traditional medicine and toward relatively safer phytotherapies. This discrepancy is important for the treatment of various chronic disorders. Okra (Abelmoschus esculentus L.) is a popular vegetable crop with great nutritional value and therapeutic effects, making it a potential option for use in a variety of nutraceutical products. The okra fruit’s mucilage, seeds and pods are all rich in particular essential bioactive components that give it its medicinal qualities. The potential therapeutic effects of okra’s phytochemicals on a number of chronic illnesses, such as type 2 diabetes, heart disease and digestive issues, have been studied. Their antifatigue, liver detoxifying, antimicrobial and chemo preventive qualities have also been investigated. Most people agree that okra is a cheap, easily accessible vegetable crop with a variety of nutritional benefits and possible health benefits. Despite a plethora of studies on okra's medical benefits and possible nutraceutical relevance, research on its pharmacokinetics and bioavailability has been lacking, which has hindered its broad use in the nutraceutical industry. This study compiles the research on the bioactive ingredients of okra and its possible application as a nutraceutical. It will also lay the groundwork for future research into the pharmacokinetics and bioavailability of okra in advance of its possible commercial manufacturing for use as a remedy for various chronic illnesses.