Biochemical and Chromatographic Studies in Nigella Sativa L. : A Germplasm evaluation perspective

Current study focused on the findings of nutritional conposition (oil, protein,carbohydrates, ash, moisture and fibre contents) and 13 mineral contents including N, Fe,Cu,Zn,Mg, Ca, etc., all were found in varying amount. Chromatographic techniques TLC, GLC and HPLC displayed differences in of the germplasm. The generic lines were identified that have the potential to be used in future hybridization and breeding programmes to develop high oil as well as rich nutrient lines. The results revealed that Nigella sativa L. needs further consideration as potential constant source of herbal, pharmaceutical and cosmetic industries. Oil extracted by CM 2:1 (24-37%) was of the highest quantity as compared to n-hexane (18-35%) and CM 1:3 (18-34%). Quantification of fatty acid profile showed that the amount of polyunsaturated fatty acids were high as compared to monounsaturated fatty acids. Coefficient of correlation revealed that stearic acid and palmitic acid were positively correlated, as well as stearic and linoleic acid. The accessions rich in oleic-linoleic acid could be utilized as superior ones for crop improvement programs.