Value ofAmaranthus[L.] Species in Nigeria

Abstract

This chapter addresses the value of different Amaranthus [L.] species that have been recorded in Nigeria. These are Amaranthus blitum, A. dubius, A. caudatus, A. cruentus, A. deflexus, A. graecizans, A. hybridus, A. hypochondriacus, A. retroflexus, A. spinosus, A. thunbergii, A. tricolor and A. viridis. Although they are mostly cultivated, some are present as weeds and others are valued for their ornamental roles. Amaranthus species are the most important vegetables in some parts of Nigeria because of their leaves, succulent stem and cereal-like grains. The chapter describes their socio-cultural (ethnobotanical), ecological, economic, food and income security values as well as their production requirements. Although amaranths are stress tolerant, mesic condition and soil enrichment can increase output and nutrient composition, respectively. This work revealed that a gap exists in annual production amounts and foreign exchange earning from amaranths. It also compared the 13 species based on their proximate and phytochemical composition. Amaranths are already contributing to sustainable development and livelihood in Nigeria without established institutional support. There is a need for Nigeria to establish a vegetable centre (with the proposed name: Nigerian Vegetable Center) to maximise the potential and actual values of amaranths and other vegetable species in Nigeria.

Underutilization Versus Nutritional-Nutraceutical Potential of the Amaranthus Food Plant: A Mini-Review

“…Fiber: Amaranthus has been considered a rich source of fiber, which constitutes soluble and insoluble [50,51]. Therefore, the inclusion of Amaranthus leaves as one of the ingredients in a daily diet can be of advantage to the consumers, as it aids digestion and as well as beneficial, by way of easing bowel movement, managing weight and thereby, reducing non-communicable diseases, especially heart disease and diabetes.…”

“…Thirteen species of Amaranthus were found to have been documented as commonly found in the Western part of Africa, precisely in Nigeria under cultivation, either as weeds or ornamental. Although none of the thirteen species is of Nigerian origin, most have since adapted to the climate and are valued for their leaves, herbaceous stem, inflorescence, seeds, and chemical byproducts [51]. In West Africa, Nigeria, Amaranths are mostly considered vegetables with great potentials.…”

“…Amaranthus is cheap; hence it has been a preferred choice for many. It is also preferred because it can supplement the diverse cereals and legumes, which make up the bulk of daily food [51]. The most common mode of utilizing Amaranthus species in Africa, for example, in Nigeria, is to cook the leaves like spinach.…”

“…The most common mode of utilizing Amaranthus species in Africa, for example, in Nigeria, is to cook the leaves like spinach. The leaves are also added toa mixture of salads [51]. West Africans value the leafy amaranths more than the grain species, perhaps because of the limited information on whether the seeds are edible not.…”

Plants and Plant Products in Local Markets Within Benin City and Environs

“…Their consumption ensures the intake of various essential vitamins and mineral elements thus avoiding the problem of malnutrition (Yamaguchi 1983). There is a wide variety of indigenous vegetables and fruits found in Africa, which are chief sources of nutrients, vitamins, antioxidants, minerals, and proteins (Odhav et al 2007;Ogwu et al 2016;Ogwu 2020). Some of the indigenous vegetables and fruits are mainly used for medicinal purposes (Eifediyi et al 2008).…”