Phytochemistry, nutritional composition, health benefits and future prospects of Mespilus germanica L. (Medlar): A review

Mespilus germanica L., commonly known as medlar, is one of two species of the Rosaceae family. The medlar plant has a long history of use in gastronomy and healthcare. Medlar waste is used to extract hazardous heavy metals from contaminated water. The nutritional value of M. germanica fruits comes from their composition of carbohydrates, carotenoids, amino acids, organic acids, proteins, vitamins, fatty acids, and vital components. M. germanica fruit contains a high concentration of important phenolic components, which contribute to its anti-diabetic and antioxidant properties. Additionally, several studies have identified diverse biological properties of the M. germanica plant, including the cytotoxic, neurodegenerative, and antibacterial properties of its fruits and leaves. Scientists are investigating underutilized plant species to address sustainability issues in food production. This review study will provide a comprehensive examination of its chemical composition, medical applications, plant waste utilization, and potential biological activities.

Carbonized medlar-core particles as a new biosorbent for removal of Cu(2+) from aqueous solution and study of its surface morphology

The objective of this study was to investigate the use of carbonized medlar-core particles as a new biosorbent to remove Cu(2+) from aqueous solution. Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy and scanning electron microscopy were used to characterize the biosorbent. This paper reports the effects of adsorbent dose, pH, temperature and concentration of adsorbate. Batch isotherm studies were also performed to understand the ability of the adsorbent. The adsorption behavior of the Cu(2+) was studied using Langmuir and Freundlich adsorption isotherm models. The maximum adsorption capacity determined from the Langmuir adsorption equation has been found as 43.478 mg.g(-1) at 298.15 K. The adsorption of Cu(2+) by medlar core in carbonized form was spontaneous and endothermic. It was also found that the biosorption of Cu(2+) followed second-order kinetics. Carbonized medlar-core particles showed great potential in aqueous solution due to the high adsorption capacity.