Title: Phytochemical And Pharmacological Overview Of Citrullus Lanatus: Insights From Fruit Flesh, Seeds, Rind, Leaves, And Roots
Authors: Ahmed Attahiru
Volume: 9
Issue: 8
Pages: 267-272
Publication Date: 2025/08/28
Abstract:
Citrullus lanatus (watermelon) is a globally cultivated cucurbitaceous crop valued not only for its edible fruit flesh but also for the nutritional and medicinal properties of its seeds, rind, leaves, and roots. Increasing evidence shows that these underutilized parts contain diverse phytochemicals, including carotenoids, amino acids, flavonoids, tannins, saponins, and essential fatty acids. Lycopene and citrulline dominate the fruit flesh, contributing to antioxidant and cardiovascular benefits, while seeds provide proteins, oils, and polyunsaturated fatty acids with hypoglycemic and antimicrobial effects. The rind, rich in citrulline and polyphenols, demonstrates wound healing and antioxidant activities, whereas leaves are reported to possess anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial compounds. Roots, though less studied, are traditionally employed for diuretic and laxative purposes, with emerging evidence of hepatoprotective potential. Collectively, these findings highlight watermelon as a valuable source of nutraceuticals and potential therapeutic agents. This review underscores the phytochemical richness and pharmacological relevance of Citrullus lanatus beyond its fruit flesh, drawing attention to seeds, rind, leaves, and roots as promising reservoirs of bioactive compounds. Further research through bioassay guided isolation, mechanistic studies, and clinical validation is essential to optimize utilization of watermelon derived products in functional food and drug development.