Evaluation of Chemical Content and Phytochemical Composition of Yemeni Almond Cultivars

Abstract

The almond plant is considered one of the most important agricultural crops economically, nutritionally, and healthily, its properties and chemical composition differ according to the places of its cultivation. This study aims to estimate the chemical and phytochemical content of some local cultivars of almonds in Yemen. The chemical components, minerals, and secondary metabolites were estimated in the seeds. The results of the chemical analysis showed that the studied cultivars of Yemeni almonds contained a high percentage of nutrients compared to the imported samples, the percentages of moisture, protein, fat, carbohydrates, and ash were 2.88–3.39%, 12.7–19.15%, 36.87–65.34%, 13.23–38.02%, and 2.55–3.56%, respectively, and they contained a high content of some minerals such as iron, zinc, copper, and potassium. The total phenols in the studied almond cultivars ranged from 9.9–113 mg Gallic acid/g, and the total flavonoids ranged from 47.7–63.00 mg Rutin/g. It is concluded from the study that Yemeni almonds are characterized by unique properties that promise multiple uses in the food and pharmaceutical industries and in the prevention and treatment of many diseases.