The Journal of Phytopharmacology 2023; 12(3):196-202 ;   DOI:10.31254/phyto.2023.12308

Review Article

Functional properties and health benefits of finger millet (Eleusine coracana L.): A review

Pranita Patil¹ , Sury Pratap Singh¹ , Pankti Patel¹

Pranita Patil,Sury Pratap Singh,Pankti Patel

1. Department of Food Technology, Parul University, Vadodara, Gujarat, India

*Author to whom correspondence should be addressed.

Received: 20th March, 2023 / Accepted: 14th May, 2023 / Published : 30th June, 2023

Abstract

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In India, ragi is the colloquial name for finger millet (Eleusine coracana L.). It is sometimes recognised as poor man’s food. Ragi flour is used to baked items to create calcium and iron-fortified biscuits. Calcium deficiency may cause birth abnormalities and dental problems. Ragi is good source of iron, which is crucial for the production of haemoglobin in red blood cells. Nutritionally, finger millets are rich in calcium, potassium, dietary fibres and polyphenolic constituents. Some individuals are allergic to protein gluten causing immune reaction. Gluten intolerance leads to chronic inflammatory bowel disorder.  An ongoing strict diet (GFD) is the only solution available for these illnesses. Gluten-free products have less nutritional content and to be more expensive other lactose food products. They are well known for their health benefits like antidiabetic, antioxidant and antimicrobial properties. Hence, finger millets are naturally gluten free, these can be consumed by both gluten intolerant as well as diabetic individuals.

Keywords

Finger millet, Eleusine coracana, Celiac disease, Functional foods, Gluten-free, Nutritional content

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