Chemical profiling and biological properties of Cynophalla retusa (syn: Capparis retusa) pods from the South American gran Chaco

• Processed pods were assessed for proximate composition and metabolites. • Seed lipids consisted primarily of free saturated and monounsaturated fatty acids. • The extracts showed α-glucosidase inhibition and immunomodulatory activity. • First report of secondary metabolites in Cynophalla retusa pods from Paraguay. • Flavonoids and alkaloids were among the 38 compounds identified. The pods from the Capparaceae Cynophalla retusa were consumed by the Chaco Amerindians in Paraguay. This study aimed to characterize the compounds present in the secondary metabolite-enriched extract (SMEE) from processed pods and to assess the effect of the SMEE on enzymes associated with metabolic syndrome. The enzymes included α-glucosidase, α-amylase, and pancreatic lipase. Acute toxicity in Swiss albino mice and immunomodulatory effect on murine splenocyte proliferation induced by concanavalin A were determined. Proximate composition analyses were performed using AOAC methods. The fatty acid profile was determined by gas chromatography and NMR. The total phenolic content and antioxidant capacity were measured using the ABTS and ORAC methods. The lipids in the seeds were monounsaturated (39.46±0.54 g/100 g oil) and saturated (38.02±0.45 g /100 g oil) fatty acids. The processed pods exhibit a high protein content and dietary fiber. Some 33 compounds, including alkaloids, phenolics, and fatty acid derivatives, were identified in the pods. The extracts showed α-glucosidase inhibition and immunomodulatory activity. This is the first comprehensive report on the secondary metabolites, acute toxicity, and immunomodulatory effects in processed pods of C. retusa from the Paraguayan Chaco. The results highlight the potential of this underutilized species for food security and global health.