Chara corallina Klein ex C. L.Willdenow, the first report of an edible freshwater alga in Thailand and its potential for food
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Abstract
The findings revealed that local knowledge is transmitted primarily through observation and experiential learning. Such knowledge enables community members to identify natural sources of KamKung alga or Sai Don (Chara corallina, Cc), apply practical methods for algal identification, distinguish between edible and inedible species, and utilize the alga for food. The Cc was determined to be a good source of protein (19.55±0.33 g/100g dw) and minerals (10.64 g/100g dw), with several amino acids, particularly methionine, identified in the algal sample. Similar to other algae, Cc had low lipid content (2.54 g/100g dw) with dominant palmitic acid (50.89% of total fatty acids). Polyunsaturated fatty acid was the main component of essential fatty acids including linoleic acid (23.34%) and α-linolenic acid (6.38%). One gram of dried Cc intake was equivalent to 9.98 kJ. High calcium content and high ratio of K/Na at 29.56:1 were recorded. Antioxidant substances including ascorbic acid and selenium were also present. Cobalamin, which is rarely available in higher plants, was also presented in this species. In addition, the aqueous extract of Cc composed of HCl/EtOH and indomethacin exhibited gastroprotective activity in a rat model of water immersion-restraint stress-induced gastric ulcers. Based on the results of this study, Cc is of considerable interest as a potential food source. Therefore, this study is provided the first comprehensive evaluation of edible C. corallina, focusing on its nutritional value, gastroprotective activity, and molecular identification.
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