Biochemical and mineral profiling of two recently described Brachystelma species from Northern Kerala, India

Abstract Wild edible tubers represent underutilized plant resources with potential nutritional significance. The present study evaluated the mineral composition, antinutritional factors, and predicted mineral bioavailability of tubers from two recently described species, Brachystelma ariyittaparensis and B. vartakii , collected from Northern Kerala, India. Mineral contents were determined using atomic absorption spectrophotometry and flame photometry following AOAC protocols, while antinutritional factors (phytate, oxalate, tannin, and alkaloids) were quantified using established biochemical methods. Significant interspecific variation in mineral profiles was observed ( p < 0.05). B. vartakii exhibited higher concentrations of sodium, potassium, magnesium, phosphorus, and zinc, whereas B. ariyittaparensis contained comparatively higher levels of calcium, iron, and selenium. Antinutrient levels in both species were within ranges reported for commonly consumed tubers. Molar ratio analysis suggested favourable predicted bioavailability of key minerals. The findings highlighted the biochemical potential of these underexplored geophytic species and provide baseline data relevant to their nutritional evaluation and future utilization. However, further studies on processing effects, safety assessment, and in vivo validation are recommended.