MORPHOLOGICAL CHARACTERISTICS OF MAKHANA (Euryale ferox Salisb.): A Review

In this review article scrutinizes the morphological characteristics of Euryale ferox Salisb. Makhana or Fox nut or Gorgon nut (Euryale ferox Salisb) is an important aquatic cash crop, belonging to family Nympheaceae. Euryale ferox is the only species of the genus. The distribution of this species is now limited to the tropical and subtropical regions of south-east and East Asia. It has adapted to the tropical climate of India and is found in natural, wild forms in various parts of northeast India (Assam, Meghalya, and Orissa) and scattered pockets of central and northern India (eg. Gorakhpur and Alwar). However, region (holy land of Ma Vaidehi / Sita) of North Bihar is the principal area of its present existence, where it is extensively cultivated considered as a potential aquatic cash crop. Bihar accounts for more than 80 percent of total makhana production in the country and that makhana production takes place in 20 out of its 38 districts, mostly situated in the North of the stat. Makhana is best grown in age-old perennial water bodies with a rich mucky bottom providing nutrients to the plants. Harvesting and processing of seed is still carried out by traditional methods. Makhana is one of the most common dry fruits utilized by the people due to low fat content, high contents of carbohydrates, protein and minerals. Both raw and fried Makhana are fairly rich in essential amino acids. Edible perisperm constitutes 80 per cent starch. Euryale ferox is a store house of macro- and micro-nutrients. The seeds are eaten raw or roasted. The seeds are sold in market and used as a farinaceous food. A lot of medicinal uses are recommended in the Indian and Chinese system of medicine. The different dietary components of the seeds were investigated to assess its nutritional significance. Important morphological characteristics of Makhana and its suitability under Eastern Region conditions are briefly discussed in this article.