S. Swetha*
Fruits are integral components of the human diet, not only because of their palatability and nutritional value but also due to their medicinal properties. Among the wide variety of fruits consumed globally, Red Dragon Fruit (Hylocereus spp.) and Pineapple (Ananas comosus) have gained prominence due to their vibrant appearance, rich phytochemical content, and diverse pharmacological activities. These tropical fruits are cultivated in many regions of the world and are appreciated not only for their exotic flavor and texture but also for their functional and therapeutic benefits. Red Dragon Fruit (Hylocereus spp.) , also known as pitaya or pitahaya, is a tropical fruit belonging to the Cactaceae family. It is widely cultivated in Southeast Asia, Central and South America, and more recently, in parts of India and Australia. The fruit originates from several species within the genus Hylocereus, with the most commonly cultivated being Hylocereus undatus, Hylocereus polyrhizus, and Hylocereus costaricensisn. Types and Color Variants Red dragon fruit can be broadly classified into the following main types, based on the color of the skin and pulp: White-fleshed Dragon Fruit (Hylocereus undatus) – This variety has a bright pink or red peel with white flesh and small black seeds. It is the most commonly available type in the global market. Red-fleshed Dragon Fruit (Hylocereus costaricensis / Hylocereus polyrhizus) – Characterized by both red skin and deep red to magenta-colored pulp. This type is rich in betalains, giving it its distinctive hue and superior antioxidant potential. Yellow Dragon Fruit (Selenicereus megalanthus) – Though technically from a different genus, this variety has a yellow peel with white pulp and is known for its higher sweetness and lower acidity. The intense coloration in red and yellow varieties is due to natural pigments such as betalains, anthocyanins, and carotenoids, which not only contribute to the fruit’s visual appeal but also enhance its pharmacological efficacy, particularly its antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and anticancer properties. Pineapple (Ananas comosus), a tropical fruit belonging to the family Bromeliaceae, is native to South America and is now widely cultivated across tropical and subtropical regions around the world. It is valued not only for its unique sweet-tart flavor and juicy texture but also for its rich phytochemical profile and medicinal properties that support various pharmacological applications. Traditionally used in folk medicine, pineapple has garnered scientific attention due to its potent anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, antimicrobial, anticoagulant, and anticancer effects. Pineapple fruits are cylindrical or conical in shape, composed of fused berries, and exhibit a vibrant yellow to golden flesh when ripe. The skin may range from green to reddish-brown, depending on the maturity and cultivar. The edible pulp is succulent, fibrous, and aromatic, with the characteristic sweet acidity attributed to the presence of organic acids such as citric and malic acids. Several varieties or cultivars of pineapple are cultivated globally, including:
- Smooth Cayenne – the most common commercial variety, known for its juiciness and high sugar-acid balance.
- Queen – smaller in size with a more fragrant aroma and deeper yellow flesh.
- Red Spanish – more fibrous and resistant to disease, commonly grown in the Caribbean.
- MD2 (Del Monte Gold) – a newer hybrid known for its sweeter taste, longer shelf life, and higher vitamin C content.
Pineapple is a reservoir of essential nutrients and bioactive compounds, including vitamins (A, B1, B6, C), minerals (calcium, potassium, manganese), and dietary fiber. A key component that distinguishes pineapple from many other fruits is bromelain, a proteolytic enzyme complex predominantly found in the stem and fruit. Bromelain exhibits wide-ranging therapeutic effects, such as anti-inflammatory, antithrombotic, fibrinolytic, and digestive properties, making pineapple highly relevant in nutraceutical and pharmaceutical formulations.
- Plant Profile:
- Red Dragon:
Red dragon fruit, also called Hylocereus polyrhizus, is a tropical fruit with bright red flesh. It is grown in many countries, including India. The peel of the fruit contains natural compounds like antioxidants and flavonoids, which help protect the stomach lining. Because of these properties, red dragon fruit is studied for its ability to prevent and heal stomach ulcers.
10.5281/zenodo.16919826