A Quantitative Analysis of Antioxidants in Mature and Immature Fruiting Bodies of Bovista plumbea Pers

Introduction: Edible mushrooms are economically important product since they have been used both as food and medicine, and contain diverse organic substances with nutritional and biological properties. Recently they have gained attention as a source of antioxidants as well.

Aim: In terms of antioxidant content, Georgian edible species of mushrooms have not been studied at all. The aim of the presented study was the quantitative study of some antioxidants in wild mushroom Bovista plumbea Pers. (puff ball), which has been known as a medicinal remedy in Georgia since ancient times, but today is less popular among population.

Methodology: The samples of puff ball were collected in village Gremi of Kvareli municipality (Georgia), in vineyards (ripe fruiting bodies); and in township Tianeti, near the coast of r. Iori in the meadow (immature, white fruiting bodies). The content of antioxidants: carotenoids, flavonoids, soluble phenols, proline, as well as total proteins and soluble carbohydrates and total antioxidant activity were investigated in both, immature and mature fruiting bodies of Bovista plumbea Pers. (puff ball). Spectrophotometric methods were used for determination of the mentioned indices.

Results: Generally the results obtained on the immature fruiting body of puff ball were significantly higher than the data obtained for the mature one. The content of carotenoids, soluble phenols, and soluble sugars exceeded the results obtained for other edible species. The content of flavonoids, amino acid proline, and total proteins in B. plumbea was similar or a bit lower of the minimum values established in other species. The total antioxidant activity of immature and mature fruiting bodies was 90% on average.

Conclusion: The study demonstrates that the wild-grown basidiomycete B. plumbea is rich in secondary metabolites with antioxidant properties and can be recommended as an antioxidant-rich and healthy edible mushroom.